Metaphase is a stage during the process of cell division, specifically mitosis or meiosis. During this stage, the cell's chromosomes condense and move together, aligning in the center of the dividing cell
. This is the third phase of mitosis, following prophase and prometaphase, and occurs before anaphase
. The main events that happen during metaphase include:
- Chromosome alignment : The chromosomes align along the metaphase plate (equatorial plane) in the center of the cell
. The sister chromatids of each chromosome are located on either side of the metaphase plate
- Spindle formation : The spindle, a structure composed of microtubules, forms and captures all the chromosomes, ensuring that they are properly aligned for division
. The spindle is attached to the kinetochores of each chromosome, which are the regions where the sister chromatids are connected
- Metaphase checkpoint : Before proceeding to anaphase, the cell ensures that all the chromosomes are properly aligned and that the kinetochores are correctly attached to microtubules. This is known as the spindle checkpoint, which helps ensure that the sister chromatids will split evenly between the two daughter cells when they separate in the next step
During metaphase, the cell's chromosomes are distinguishable when viewed through a microscope, and this stage is crucial for the proper segregation of genetic material between daughter cells
