Difference between Cytokinesis in Animal Cell and Plant Cell

Introduction

This tutorial provides a clear comparison of cytokinesis in animal and plant cells. Understanding these processes is essential in biology, as they are crucial for cell division and organism growth. This guide will break down the differences and steps involved in cytokinesis for both cell types.

Step 1: Understanding Cytokinesis

• Cytokinesis is the final stage of cell division, where the cytoplasm of a parental cell divides into two daughter cells.
• It follows mitosis and is essential for ensuring that each daughter cell receives the necessary organelles and cytoplasm.

Step 2: Cytokinesis in Animal Cells

Steps Involved

1. Formation of the Contractile Ring

   • The process begins with the formation of a contractile ring made of actin and myosin filaments.
   • This ring contracts to pinch the cell membrane, creating two separate cells.

2. Midbody Formation

   • As the contractile ring tightens, a structure called the midbody forms at the center of the dividing cell.
   • The midbody plays a role in ensuring that the cell divides evenly.

3. Abscission

   • Abscission is the final separation of the two daughter cells.
   • Once the cells are nearly separated, the membranes fuse together, completing the division.

Practical Tips

• In animal cells, cytokinesis is characterized by cleavage furrow formation, which is not present in plant cells.

Step 3: Cytokinesis in Plant Cells

Steps Involved

1. Phragmoplast Formation

   • In plant cells, a structure called the phragmoplast forms between the two nuclei.
   • The phragmoplast is made of microtubules and helps in guiding the formation of the cell plate.

2. Role of the Golgi Apparatus

   • The Golgi apparatus plays a crucial role by supplying vesicles containing cell wall materials.
   • These vesicles move to the center of the cell to contribute to the cell plate formation.

3. Cell Plate Formation

   • The vesicles coalesce at the center of the cell to form a cell plate.
   • The cell plate eventually develops into a new cell wall, separating the two daughter cells.

Practical Tips

• Unlike animal cells, plant cells do not form a cleavage furrow; instead, they build a new structure (the cell plate) to separate the cells.

Conclusion

Cytokinesis varies significantly between animal and plant cells. In animal cells, the process involves a contractile ring and abscission, while in plant cells, a phragmoplast and cell plate formation are key. Understanding these differences is crucial for studying cell biology and the mechanisms of growth and division in different organisms. For a deeper understanding, consider exploring additional resources on cell division and its implications in life sciences.