What is "prometaphase"

n. (context biology English) The stage between prophase and metaphase in mitosis

Prometaphase is the phase of mitosis following prophase and preceding metaphase, in eukaryotic somatic cells. Prometaphase is sometimes simply included as part of the end of prophase and early metaphase.

In prometaphase, the nuclear membrane breaks apart into numerous "membrane vesicles", and the chromosomes inside form protein structures called kinetochores. Kinetochore microtubules emerging from the centrosomes at the poles (ends) of the spindle reach the chromosomes and attach to the kinetochores, throwing the chromosomes into agitated motion. Other spindle microtubules make contact with microtubules coming from the opposite pole. Forces exerted by protein "motors" associated with spindle microtubules move the chromosomes toward the center of the cell.