What role do spindles play during cell division?

Spindles play a critical role in the process of cell division, particularly during mitosis and meiosis. Their primary function is to manage the movement of chromosomes, ensuring that they are properly segregated into the daughter cells.

During cell division, spindles, which are composed of microtubules, form at the poles of the cell. They extend toward the chromosomes that have been duplicated in preparation for division. The spindles attach to the centromeres of the chromosomes through structures called kinetochores. As the cell divides, the spindles pull the sister chromatids apart to opposite ends of the cell. This precise movement is essential for maintaining the correct chromosome number in the resulting daughter cells, preventing anomalies that could lead to genetic disorders or cell malfunction.

The other roles mentioned, such as energy creation, protein synthesis, and organelle formation, do not directly involve the function of spindles. Spindles are specialized structures specifically designed for the task of chromosome movement during cell division.