Structures Involved in Anaphase

Different structures involved in Anaphase and their role is explained below:

Chromosomes

• Chromosomes are thread-like structures found inside the nucleus of a cell.
• They contain genetic information in the form of DNA, which carries instructions for cell growth, development, and functioning.
• During anaphase, chromosomes condense further and split into two identical halves called sister chromatids.

Spindle Fibers

• Spindle fibers are tiny structures made of protein called microtubules.
• They form a scaffold-like structure known as the spindle apparatus, which helps in the movement and segregation of chromosomes during cell division.
• During anaphase, spindle fibers attach to the centromeres of sister chromatids and pull them apart towards opposite ends of the cell.

Centrosomes

• Centrosomes are small organelles located near the nucleus of the cell.
• They consist of a pair of centrioles and helps in organizing the spindle fibers during cell division.
• In anaphase, centrosomes move to opposite poles of the cell, directing the movement of chromosomes towards these poles.

Microtubules

• Microtubules are long, tube-like structures made of protein subunits called tubulin.
• They form the main components of spindle fibers and provide structural support to the cell during division.
• During anaphase, microtubules attached to the centromeres of chromosomes shorten, pulling the sister chromatids towards opposite poles of the cell.

Kinetochores

• Kinetochores are protein structures located at the centromeres of chromosomes.
• They serve as attachment sites for spindle fibers and play a key role in chromosome movement and segregation.
• During anaphase, kinetochores interact with microtubules, causing the separation of sister chromatids and ensuring their proper distribution to daughter cells.

Also Read: Difference Between Centromere and Kinetochore 

Anaphase is the third phase of mitosis, after metaphase and prophase, when chromosomes split and move to opposite poles of the cell. This ensures each daughter cell receives a complete set of chromosomes. The anaphase diagram shows chromosomes reach their highest level of condensation, which helps with chromosome segregation and nucleus re-formation.

Anaphase’s importance lies in its role in ensuring the correct distribution of genetic material, which is essential for organism development and growth. In this article, we will study anaphase, its structure, parts, and functions as well as some interesting facts about anaphase.