A type of cell nucleus division by means of which the two daughter nuclei normally receive identical complements of the number of CHROMOSOMES of the somatic cells of the species.

The usual process of somatic reproduction of cells consisting of a sequence of modifications of the nucleus that result in the formation of two daughter cells with exactly the same chromosome and DNA content as that of the original cell. It is the process by which the body grows and replaces cells and is divided into four phases. In Prophase, paired chromosomes form, nuclear membrane disappears, the achromatic spindle appears, and polar bodies form. In Metaphase, chromosomes are arranged in the equatorial plane of the central spindle to form the monaster and chromosomes separate into exactly similar halves. In Anaphase, the two groups of daughter chromosomes separate and move along the fibers of the central spindle, each toward one of the asters, forming the diaster. In Telophase, the daughter chromosomes resolve themselves into a reticulum, the daughter nuclei are formed, and the cytoplasm divides forming two complete daughter cells.

(mitotic cycle) The process by which a single parent cell divides to make two new daughter cells. Each daughter cell receives a complete set of chromosomes from the parent cell. This process allows the body to grow and replace cells.

Mitosis, a process of cell duplication, or reproduction, during which one cell gives rise to two genetically identical daughter cells. Strictly applied, the term mitosis is used to describe the duplication and distribution of chromosomes, the structures that carry the genetic information. A brief...