Prometaphase
Prometaphase is a time during cell division when things start to get really busy! It happens right after the cell finishes copying all of its DNA and right before the chromosomes (which are long strands of DNA) start to separate.
During prometaphase, the nuclear envelope (which is like a little bubble that holds all the DNA) starts to break down. This means that all the chromosomes are now exposed and can start moving around.
Next, tiny ropes called microtubules start to grow out from opposite ends of the cell. These microtubules are like little highways that the chromosomes will use to move around the cell. They will attach to the chromosomes in a special way so that they can be pulled to the right places when it's time for the cell to divide.
But the cell is also making sure that everything is in the right place before the chromosomes start moving around. Little checkpoint stations examine the chromosomes to make sure that they are healthy and that all the DNA has been copied correctly.
So during prometaphase, the cell is getting everything ready for the big moment when the chromosomes will start separating. It's a busy time and there is a lot to do, but the cell is very careful and makes sure that everything is just right before moving on to the next step.
During prometaphase, the nuclear envelope (which is like a little bubble that holds all the DNA) starts to break down. This means that all the chromosomes are now exposed and can start moving around.
Next, tiny ropes called microtubules start to grow out from opposite ends of the cell. These microtubules are like little highways that the chromosomes will use to move around the cell. They will attach to the chromosomes in a special way so that they can be pulled to the right places when it's time for the cell to divide.
But the cell is also making sure that everything is in the right place before the chromosomes start moving around. Little checkpoint stations examine the chromosomes to make sure that they are healthy and that all the DNA has been copied correctly.
So during prometaphase, the cell is getting everything ready for the big moment when the chromosomes will start separating. It's a busy time and there is a lot to do, but the cell is very careful and makes sure that everything is just right before moving on to the next step.