Answer to Question #77886 in Cell Biology for Assertiveguy

Question

If an interphase cell is treated with cyanide (a metabolic poison), the cell does not divide by
mitosis. However, if cyanide is added right after mitosis has started, the same cell completes
mitosis. Which of the following explains this observation?
A. Metabolic activity ceases during mitosis
B. Cell division does not require metabolic activity
C. Energy required for mitosis is produced and stored in the cell during interphase
D. Mitotic cells make factors that make them resistant to cyanide

Answer 1

The correct answer is C. Energy required for mitosis is produced and stored in the cell during interphase.

Cyanide blocks the process of energy production, and as mitosis can occur under its presence, then energy has already been accumulated. In turn, if cyanide is applied during interphase, energy production is blocked and thus, mitosis cannot occur.