The metaphase

      Chromosomes are aligned along metaphase plate, attached by chromosomal microtubules to both poles. The mitotic spindle of the metaphase cell contains a highly organised array of microtubules that can be divided into three groups  :

• Astral microtubules that radiate out from the centrosome into the region outside the body of the spindle and that probably help position the spindle apparatus in the cell
• Chromosomal microtubules that extended from the centrosome to the kinetochores of the chromosomes and that are required for the movement of the chromosomes toward the poles during anaphase
• Polar microtubules that extended from the centrosome past the chromosomes and form a structural basket that maintains the integrity of the spindle