Cission

Cission is a biological process in which a single cell divides into two or more daughter cells. Unlike mitosis, which results in two genetically identical daughter cells, cission can produce daughter cells that are genetically distinct. This process is common in certain types of reproduction, such as binary fission in prokaryotes, and in some forms of asexual reproduction in eukaryotes.

In prokaryotes, cission typically occurs after DNA replication. The cell grows and the plasma membrane expands until it reaches the midpoint of the cell. At this point, the cell membrane pinches inward, effectively dividing the cell into two. This process is relatively simple and does not involve the formation of a spindle apparatus or the separation of chromosomes.

In eukaryotes, cission can occur in various forms of asexual reproduction, such as budding in yeast or the formation of daughter cells in certain types of algae. In these cases, the process may involve the formation of a new cell wall or membrane, and the division of the cytoplasm and organelles between the daughter cells.

Cission is an important process in the growth and reproduction of many organisms, and it plays a crucial role in the maintenance of genetic diversity in populations. However, the process can also be disrupted by various factors, such as environmental stressors or genetic mutations, which can lead to abnormal cell division and potentially contribute to the development of diseases.