Under the microscope, the anaphases in the dividing cells were clearly visible, each marked by separating chromatids.

During anaphase, the sister chromatids are pulled toward opposite poles of the cell.

Microscopists observed distinct anaphasic changes in the spindle apparatus as chromosomes separated.

During mitosis, the anaphase-promoting complex targets securin for degradation to allow sister chromatids to separate.

Recent studies show that anaphase-promoting complexes coordinate targeted protein degradation to ensure timely chromosome segregation during cell division.