2.3.4 Cytokinesis

Key Features of Cytokinesis:

1. Division of the Cytoplasm:

• The parent cell's cytoplasm separates into two parts, ensuring each daughter cell has the necessary organelles and cellular components.

2. Movement of Organelles:

• Replicated organelles are evenly distributed between the two daughter cells.

3. Formation of the Cell Boundary:

• In animal cells:
• A cleavage furrow forms as the plasma membrane pinches inward until the cell is split into two.
• In plant cells:
• A cell plate forms along the centre of the cell. This develops into a new cell wall, dividing the cell into two.

Differences Between Animal and Plant Cytokinesis:

Feature	Animal Cells	Plant Cells
Mechanism	Formation of a cleavage furrow.	Formation of a cell plate.
Cytoplasm Division	Membrane pinches inward to divide the cell.	New cell wall forms to separate the two cells.
Role of Cytoskeleton	Actin filaments contract to form the furrow.	Vesicles bring materials to build the cell plate.

Importance of Cytokinesis:

• Ensures each daughter cell is fully separated and functional.
• Completes the process of cell division, resulting in two new cells capable of independent function.