What structural change marks the process of cytokinesis in animal cells?

A Formation of a cleavage furrow

B Development of a cell plate

C Condensation of chromatin

D Disintegration of the nuclear envelope

Solution

Correct Answer: Option A

- The process of cytokinesis in animal cells is marked by the formation of a cleavage furrow, which is a key structural change.
- During the final stages of cell division, the cell membrane begins to constrict at the metaphase plate, creating an indentation known as the cleavage furrow.
- This furrow deepens as a contractile ring composed of actin and myosin filaments tightens, eventually leading to the physical separation of the two daughter cells.

- In contrast, plant cells undergo cytokinesis by developing a cell plate due to the presence of a rigid cell wall, which prevents furrowing.
- The other options, such as condensation of chromatin and disintegration of the nuclear envelope, are events associated with earlier phases of mitosis and not specific to cytokinesis itself.

To summarize:
- Cleavage furrow formation is specific to animal cells during cytokinesis.
- The furrow results from a contractile ring that pinches the cell membrane.
- This process ultimately leads to the separation of two genetically identical daughter cells.

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