Biology
Do you ever feel like you’re being pulled in many directions at once? Chromosomes can relate–especially during metaphase. During this stage of mitosis, chromosomes are at the center of a serious tug-of-war match. They are being pulled in opposite directions by strong protein cables. It is these pulling forces that drag the chromosomes to the center of the cell–the metaphase plate.
The kinetochore is the place where the cables attach. Roughly translated, kinetochore means, “place of movement.” The chromosomes wouldn’t move without these strong connections.
The spindles are the network of protein cables that attach to the chromosomes. The cell has two spindles emanating from either side of the cell. (112 words)
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A Cartoon in The New Yorker
It’s always exciting to have a cartoon in print. This one appeared in the January 15, 2024 issue: