What is mitosis primarily used for?

Mitosis is primarily used for the process of cell division that results in the formation of two genetically identical daughter cells from a single parent cell. This is essential for various biological processes, particularly the repair and replacement of old or damaged cells. When tissues are injured or when cells age, mitosis allows for the proliferation of new cells to replace those that have been lost or impaired, ensuring that the tissue continues to function effectively.

While there are other important processes such as DNA replication that occurs prior to mitosis and is important during cell division, as well as reproduction of gametes which involves meiosis rather than mitosis, the principal role of mitosis is in the maintenance and repair of existing cells in somatic tissues. Protein synthesis relates to translating genetic information into functional proteins but does not directly involve mitosis. Therefore, the focus on repairing old or damaged cells clearly aligns with the primary function of mitosis.