Fluorescence light micrograph showing numerous cancer cells: the cell nuclei (containing genetic information in the form of DNA) are stained blue. The cell at centre is undergoing cell division by mitosis. Mitosis has 2 main functions; the equal division of chromsomes from the parent cell nucleus between the 2 potential daughter cells, and the cleavage of the parent cell by division of the cytoplasm. Elements of the cytoskeleton known as microfilaments are stained red. The framework of microfilaments provides structural support (especially necessary when the cell is dividing), and may also assist in the movement of organelles & metabolic substances within the cell.