The term "multipolar mitosis" is a scientific terminology that describes a cellular division process in which chromosomes migrate to multiple poles. The pronunciation of this word can be broken down phonetically as /mʌltiˈpoʊlər mʌɪˈtoʊsɪs/. The "multi" syllable is pronounced as "mʌlti," while "polar" is pronounced as "ˈpoʊlər." The "mitosis" is pronounced as "mʌɪˈtoʊsɪs." This spelling enables scientists and medical professionals to accurately communicate with one another, ensuring the correct terminology is used when discussing complex cellular processes.
Multipolar mitosis refers to a type of cell division characterized by the formation of multiple spindle poles or centrosomes instead of the usual bipolar configuration observed in most normal mitotic events. During mitosis, the duplicated chromosomes are separated and divided equally into two daughter cells. This process is facilitated by structures called spindle fibers, which attach to the chromosomes and pull them towards opposite ends of the cell.
In multipolar mitosis, instead of the typical two spindle poles, more than two poles are present within the dividing cell. This aberrant formation of multiple spindle poles leads to irregular chromosome attachment and segregation, causing errors in the distribution of genetic material. Consequently, the resulting daughter cells may have an unequal or abnormal number of chromosomes, a condition known as aneuploidy.
Multipolar mitosis can occur spontaneously or as a consequence of certain genetic mutations or environmental factors such as exposure to certain drugs or radiation. It is often associated with cancer development, as aneuploidy can disrupt the normal functioning of cells and promote the growth of tumors.
Understanding the mechanisms underlying multipolar mitosis is of significant interest in the field of cancer research. By investigating the causes and consequences of this type of cell division, scientists aim to gain insight into the development and progression of cancer, potentially leading to the development of targeted therapies to prevent or treat the disease.
A pathological form in which the spindle has three or more poles resulting in the formation of a corresponding number of nuclei.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "multipolar mitosis" is a combination of two words: "multipolar" and "mitosis".
1. Multipolar - The word "multipolar" is derived from the Latin roots "multi-" meaning "many" and "polus" meaning "pole". In biology, it is used to describe a condition where a cell or organism has multiple poles or centers of growth or division. In the context of mitosis, it refers to the abnormal division of a cell that results in more than two poles or spindle poles during the process.
2. Mitosis - The word "mitosis" comes from the Greek word "mitos" meaning "thread" or "thread-like structure". It is a highly regulated process of cell division where a single cell divides to form two identical daughter cells. It is a fundamental process in the growth, development, and repair of tissues in multicellular organisms.