Based on your examination, what is your conclusion? You can click the VIEW IMAGE button to display on the LabPad a merged image of all the microscopic samples you just examined.
a) The poison accelerates cell division
b) The poison has no effect on the cells:
c) The poison inhits cell division
a) The effect of the poison cannot be determined
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is:
c) The poison inhibits cell division
Explanation:
Spindle poisons, such as colchicine, are substances that disrupt cell division by interfering with the mitotic spindle—a structure essential for chromosome separation during cell division. These poisons prevent the proper formation or function of the spindle fibers, leading to cell cycle arrest and inhibition of cell division. (Wikipedia)
When cells are exposed to spindle poisons, they are unable to proceed through mitosis effectively. This disruption can result in cells remaining in the metaphase stage, where chromosomes align at the cell’s equatorial plate, unable to separate into daughter cells. As a consequence, cell division is halted, and the affected cells may undergo apoptosis (programmed cell death) or enter a state of senescence. (Filo)
The impact of spindle poisons on cell division has significant implications in medical treatments, particularly in cancer therapy. By inhibiting cell division, these poisons can prevent the proliferation of cancer cells, which often divide uncontrollably. However, their use must be carefully controlled, as they can also affect normal, healthy cells that are dividing. The therapeutic application of spindle poisons requires a balance between effectively targeting cancer cells and minimizing damage to normal tissues. (Wikipedia)
In summary, spindle poisons inhibit cell division by disrupting the mitotic spindle, leading to cell cycle arrest and potential cell death. Their ability to halt cell division makes them valuable in certain therapeutic contexts, though their use must be carefully managed to avoid adverse effects on healthy cells.