Prophase

Prophase is the first stage in the process of cell division known as mitosis. It is an important part of the cell cycle, during which the cell grows in size, the nuclear membrane and nucleolus dissolve, and the chromosomes become visible. During prophase, the chromosomes condense and the spindle fibers begin to form. This facilitates the movement of the chromosomes to the opposite sides of the cell in the next stage of mitosis, metaphase. Prophase is important for the production of two identical daughter cells and can be used to analyze genetic diseases or the effects of mutations.