Term (Greek kýtos = vessel; kínēsis = movement) for the final step of cell division. In this process, the cytoplasm (cell plasma) is divided into two cell areas, from which two separate daughter cells subsequently develop. Cytokinesis completes the division of the cell nucleus. It takes place after mitosis (e.g. during growth) or meiosis (e.g. during reproduction) and leads to the complete separation of the cell.
The process differs depending on the cell type. In human and animal cells, a ring-shaped constriction is formed, which is triggered by contractile actin and myosin filaments. This contracts and separates the cell into two halves. In plant cells, the rigid cell wall prevents such a constriction. Instead, a cell plate forms in the centre of the cell, from which the new cell wall later develops.
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Egon Mark
Diplom-Sommelier, Weinakademiker und Weinberater, Volders (Österreich)