Definition

1. Noun:
   • The organic process consisting of the division of the cytoplasm of a cell following karyokinesis, bringing about the separation into two daughter cells. Cytokinesis is the final stage of cell division, where the cell's cytoplasm and organelles are partitioned into two separate cells after the nucleus has divided.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Cytokinesis typically begins during the late stages of mitosis.
  • In animal cells, cytokinesis involves the formation of a cleavage furrow.
  • The failure of cytokinesis can result in a cell with multiple nuclei.

Advanced Usage

• "Cytokinesis is completed": Refers to the successful finishing of the cytoplasmic division process.

  • Only after cytokinesis is completed are two genetically identical daughter cells formed.

• "To undergo cytokinesis": Describes a cell entering and completing the process.

  • The cell will undergo cytokinesis immediately after the chromosomes have separated.

Variants and Related Words

• Cytokinetic (adj): Pertaining to or involving cytokinesis.

  • The cytokinetic ring is a structure made of actin and myosin filaments.

• Karyokinesis (n): The division of a cell's nucleus during mitosis or meiosis. Cytokinesis follows karyokinesis.

Synonyms

• Cytoplasmic division: The splitting of the cell's cytoplasm.
• Cell cleavage: The process of dividing one cell into two, often used interchangeably with cytokinesis in specific contexts.

Related Terms and Phrases

• Cleavage furrow: The indentation that begins the process of cytokinesis in animal cells.

  • The cleavage furrow pinches the cell into two.

• Cell plate: The structure that forms during cytokinesis in plant cells.

  • A cell plate develops from the center outward to divide the plant cell.

Notes on Meaning

• Cytokinesis is a distinct biological process from karyokinesis (nuclear division). While karyokinesis divides the genetic material, cytokinesis divides the cell body.
• The mechanisms of cytokinesis differ significantly between animal cells (using a contractile ring) and plant cells (forming a cell plate).

Noun

1. organic process consisting of the division of the cytoplasm of a cell following karyokinesis bringing about the separation into two daughter cells