prophase

prophase definition - medical

pro·phase (prōˈfāzˌ)

noun
  1. The first stage of mitosis, during which the chromosomes condense and become visible, the nuclear membrane breaks down, and the spindle apparatus forms at opposite poles of the cell.
  2. The first stage of meiosis, during which the DNA replicates, homologous chromosomes undergo synapsis, chiasmata form, and the chromosomes contract.

Related Forms:

  • pro·phaˈsic (-fāˈzĭk) adjective

The American Heritage® Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

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