Mitosis occurs in eukaryotic cells as part of the cell cycle, specifically during the mitotic (M) phase, following the DNA replication in the S phase of interphase
. It takes place in nearly every cell of the human body except germ cells, which undergo meiosis instead
. In the body, mitosis actively occurs in tissues where cells need to be replaced or where growth is ongoing. This includes:
- Bone marrow, where new blood cells are produced.
- Skin cells, which are regularly replaced as they wear out.
- Embryonic and fetal cells during development.
- Growing regions of plants called meristems, where cells continuously divide for growth
Thus, mitosis occurs in somatic cells throughout the body, especially in areas of growth and tissue repair, ensuring genetically identical daughter cells are produced
