cytokinetic process

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

A cellular process that is involved in cytokinesis (the division of the cytoplasm of a cell and its separation into two daughter cells). [GOC:bf, GOC:isa_complete, GOC:mah]

Cytokinesis is the final stage of cell division, where the cytoplasm of a single eukaryotic cell divides into two daughter cells. This process is essential for the completion of mitosis and meiosis, ensuring that each daughter cell receives a complete set of chromosomes and organelles. Here's a breakdown of the key steps involved:

**1. Cleavage Furrow Formation:**

* In animal cells, cytokinesis begins with the formation of a cleavage furrow, a shallow groove on the cell surface. This furrow is formed by a contractile ring of actin filaments and myosin II motor proteins, located beneath the plasma membrane.
* The contractile ring is assembled at the cell's equator, perpendicular to the mitotic spindle.

**2. Contraction and Ingression:**

* The actin and myosin filaments within the contractile ring slide past each other, causing the ring to contract. This contraction pulls the plasma membrane inwards, deepening the cleavage furrow.
* As the furrow deepens, it pinches inward, gradually dividing the cell into two daughter cells.

**3. Cell Separation:**

* Eventually, the furrow reaches the center of the cell, completely separating the two daughter cells.
* In animal cells, the plasma membrane of the two daughter cells fuses at the point of contact, creating a temporary bridge called the midbody.
* The midbody is eventually degraded, and the daughter cells fully separate.

**4. Organelle Distribution:**

* During cytokinesis, organelles such as mitochondria, Golgi apparatus, and endoplasmic reticulum are distributed between the two daughter cells.
* This ensures that each daughter cell has the necessary components for independent function.

**5. Cytokinesis in Plant Cells:**

* Plant cells have a rigid cell wall that prevents the formation of a cleavage furrow.
* Instead, cytokinesis in plant cells occurs through the formation of a cell plate.
* The cell plate forms from Golgi-derived vesicles that migrate to the center of the cell and fuse with the existing cell wall.
* This newly formed cell wall eventually expands until it completely separates the two daughter cells.

Cytokinesis is a highly regulated process that ensures accurate division of the cell and its contents. This process is vital for growth, development, and repair in multicellular organisms.'
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