karyokinesis /ker′ē·ōkinē″sis, -kīnē″sis/ [Gk, karyon + kinesis, motion] , the division of the nucleus and equal distribution of nuclear material during mitosis and meiosis. The process involves the four stages of prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. It precedes the division of the cytoplasm. Also called karyomitosis. See also cytokinesis. −karyokinetic, adj.
