what happens to the centrioles during mitosis

During mitosis, centrioles duplicate before division, then each centrosome moves to opposite poles of the cell and helps organize the mitotic spindle. In simple terms, they are split into two centrosomes so each daughter cell can inherit one set after cell division.

Quick Scoop

• Before mitosis: the centrioles have already duplicated during interphase, so there are two pairs ready to separate.

• At mitosis entry: the centrosomes separate and migrate to opposite poles of the cell.

• During spindle formation: they help organize microtubules into the spindle that pulls chromosomes apart.

• By the end of division: each daughter cell ends up with its own centrosome containing a centriole pair.

Why it matters

Centrioles are not always absolutely required for mitosis in every organism, but in animal cells they make cell division more efficient and more accurate by helping build the spindle poles. Some studies also note that cells can sometimes divide without centrioles, though errors and delays are more likely.

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