Cellular Reorganization during Mitotic Entry

The preparation of eukaryotic cells for division requires an extensive cellular reorganization, affecting cytoskeletal elements, chromatin, and organelles. These drastic changes in cellular architecture ensure the proper segregation of chromosomes and inheritance of organelles. The morphological alterations occurring during mitotic entry are tightly coordinated with the cell cycle, mainly through the action of mitotic kinases. Conversely, the fidelity of these processes impacts mitotic progression and is important for organismal homeostasis and cell fate. Here, we provide an overview of major architectural changes observed during early mitosis and review recent progress in understanding their regulatory mechanisms, focusing on processes accompanying mitotic cell rounding and restructuring of organelles in mammalian cells.