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Mitotic: meaning, definitions and examples

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mitotic

 

[məˈtɪtɪk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

cell division

Mitotic refers to the process of mitosis, which is a type of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells from a single parent cell. It is a crucial part of the cell cycle and is essential for growth, development, and tissue repair in multicellular organisms. During mitosis, the chromosomes are replicated and then evenly divided while being distributed to the daughter cells. This process ensures that each daughter cell receives the same set of chromosomes, maintaining genetic continuity.

Synonyms

cell-dividing, division-related.

Examples of usage

  • The mitotic phase of the cell cycle is critical for growth.
  • Errors in mitotic division can lead to cancer.
  • Cell biologists study mitotic processes to understand development.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'mitotic' comes from the Greek word 'mitos,' meaning 'thread,' referencing the way chromosomes appear during cell division.
  • It was first used in biological texts around the late 19th century when scientists began to understand cell division.
  • The prefix 'mito-' relates to 'mitosis,' which describes a specific type of cell division crucial for growth and repair.

Science

  • During mitotic division, a single cell divides into two genetically identical daughter cells, ensuring that genetic information is preserved.
  • Mitosis consists of several stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase, each critical for accurate division.
  • This process is vital for healing injuries, as new cells need to be produced to replace damaged ones.

Health

  • Uncontrolled mitotic activity can lead to cancer, where cells divide too often without the normal checks and balances.
  • Certain treatments, like chemotherapy, target rapidly dividing cells to slow down or halt the progression of cancer.
  • The study of mitotic processes can aid in understanding developmental biology and tissue regeneration.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and books, themes of cloning or replicating life often relate back to the idea of cells dividing, paralleling mitotic processes in science.
  • Science fiction often explores the implications of advanced technologies impacting biological processes similar to mitosis.

Education

  • Understanding mitotic processes is fundamental in biology classes, linking to genetics, cell biology, and advanced studies in medicine.
  • Interactive models and simulations are often used in classrooms to illustrate the stages of mitosis visually.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,213, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.