Amitotic
Amitotic
Amitotic (pronunciation: /ˌæmɪˈtoʊtɪk/) is a term used in Cell Biology to describe a type of cell division where the cell divides its cytoplasm without undergoing mitosis or meiosis. The term is derived from the Greek words 'a' meaning 'not' and 'mitos' meaning 'thread', referring to the absence of the typical thread-like structures seen in mitosis and meiosis.
Overview
Amitosis is a relatively rare type of cell division, typically seen in certain types of bacteria, protozoa, and yeast. Unlike mitosis and meiosis, which involve the formation of chromosomes and their subsequent separation, amitosis involves the simple splitting of the nucleus and cytoplasm without the formation of chromosomes.
Process
The process of amitosis begins with the elongation of the nucleus, followed by the constriction in the middle. This constriction deepens until the nucleus is divided into two. Following this, the cytoplasm also divides, resulting in two separate cells. This process is different from binary fission, another form of asexual reproduction, as it does not involve the replication of DNA.
Significance
Amitosis is significant in the study of cell biology as it provides insight into the various ways in which cells can divide and reproduce. It is also important in understanding the life cycles of certain organisms, such as bacteria and yeast, which rely on amitosis for reproduction.
Related Terms
- Mitosis: A type of cell division that results in two daughter cells each having the same number and kind of chromosomes as the parent nucleus.
- Meiosis: A type of cell division that reduces the number of chromosomes in the parent cell by half and produces four gamete cells.
- Binary Fission: A kind of asexual reproduction which is the most common form of reproduction in prokaryotes such as bacteria.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Amitotic
- Wikipedia's article - Amitotic
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