Question

Which of the following stages of meiosis involves division of centromere?

• A. Metaphase I
• B. Metaphase II
• C. Anaphase II
• D. Telophase II

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

To answer the question regarding which stage of meiosis involves the division of the centromere, let's first understand the process of meiosis, particularly focusing on the stages involved.

Understanding Meiosis 

Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in the formation of four haploid cells (gametes). It consists of two successive divisions: Meiosis I and Meiosis II. Each division has sub-stages: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase.

The Role of Centromeres in Meiosis

The centromere is the region of a chromosome where the kinetochores form and spindle fibers attach during cell division. The division of centromeres is crucial as it leads to the separation of sister chromatids.

1. Metaphase I: Chromosomes align at the equatorial plate, but the centromeres do not divide here.
2. Metaphase II: Similar to Metaphase I, chromosomes align at the equator, preparing for the upcoming division, but centromeres remain intact during metaphase.
3. Anaphase II: This is the critical stage where the division of centromeres occurs, allowing sister chromatids to separate and move towards opposite poles.
4. Telophase II: Following Anaphase II, the cell completes its division and cytokinesis occurs, producing four distinct haploid cells. The centromere division has already taken place before this stage.

Conclusion

Based on the above explanation, the correct answer is Anaphase II, as it is during this stage that the centromeres divide, resulting in the separation of the sister chromatids.