Metaphase plate

Definition

Metaphase plate is an imaginary plane located at the cell's equator during metaphase of mitosis and meiosis. It is where chromosomes align before being separated into daughter cells.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The metaphase plate ensures that chromosomes are properly aligned for equal segregation.
2. Spindle fibers attach to the centromeres of chromosomes, pulling them towards the metaphase plate.
3. Alignment at the metaphase plate reduces the risk of genetic abnormalities in daughter cells.
4. The formation of the metaphase plate occurs after prophase and before anaphase.
5. Both mitotic (somatic cell division) and meiotic (gamete formation) processes involve a metaphase plate.

Review Questions

Related terms

Spindle Fibers: Protein structures that help segregate chromosomes during cell division by attaching to their centromeres.

Centromere:

The region of a chromosome where spindle fibers attach during cell division.

Anaphase:

The stage in mitosis or meiosis following metaphase, where sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles.