Microtubule-Organizing Centers Will Begin to Migrate Toward the Cell Poles

Question

Microtubule-organizing centers will begin to migrate toward the cell poles during:
A) prophase.
B) metaphase.
C) anaphase.
D) telophase.

Accepted Answer

During prophase, the microtubule-organizing centers (MTOCs), also known as centrosomes, move toward the opposite poles of the cell, preparing for the assembly of the mitotic spindle. This is facilitated by the breakdown of the nuclear envelope, which allows the MTOCs to interact with the cytoplasmic microtubules and initiate the formation of the spindle. In metaphase, the spindle fibers are fully formed and the chromosomes align at the metaphase plate. In anaphase, the spindle fibers separate the sister chromatids and pull them toward opposite poles of the cell. In telophase, the spindle disassembles and the nuclear envelope reforms around the separated chromosomes.