Why are spindle findle fibers important during mitosis
Spindle fibers, also known as microtubules, are important during mitosis as they play a crucial role in the segregation and movement of chromosomes.
During mitosis, the spindle fibers are responsible for capturing and attaching to the chromosomes, allowing for their proper alignment along the metaphase plate during metaphase. The microtubules from one pole of the cell attach to one sister chromatid of each chromosome, while the microtubules from the opposite pole attach to the other sister chromatid.
Once attached, the spindle fibers exert pulling forces, which allow for the separation of the sister chromatids. As the spindle fibers shorten, they pull the sister chromatids towards opposite poles of the cell during anaphase. This ensures that each daughter cell receives the correct number and type of chromosomes.
Without spindle fibers, proper chromosome segregation would not occur, leading to an unequal distribution of genetic material to the daughter cells. This could result in genetic disorders or cell death. Therefore, spindle fibers are essential for the faithful distribution of chromosomes during mitosis.