During which phase of cell division does the kinetochore typically form?

The formation of the kinetochore typically occurs during prophase. This is a crucial phase of cell division where several key events take place. As the cell prepares to divide, the chromosomes condense and become visible under a microscope. Each chromosome, which consists of two sister chromatids, begins to attach to the mitotic spindle through the formation of the kinetochore, a protein structure that assembles on the centromere of each chromosome.

The kinetochore plays a vital role in ensuring that chromosomes are correctly aligned and segregated during the later stages of mitosis, particularly during metaphase and anaphase. In metaphase, chromosomes are aligned at the cell's equatorial plane, but the actual physical presence of the kinetochore facilitating this attachment initiates in prophase.

Thus, understanding the formation of the kinetochore during prophase is essential as it lays the groundwork for accurate chromosome movement and distribution in subsequent phases of cell division.