Mitosis allows for the growth, repair, and asexual reproduction of organisms by producing genetically identical daughter cells. It involves several stages: interphase for cell growth and DNA replication, followed by prophase, metaphase, anaphase and telophase where the chromosomes align and separate. Cytokinesis then divides the cytoplasm. Telomeres prevent loss of genes during DNA replication. Controlled mitosis is crucial for development but uncontrolled mitosis can lead to cancer if mutations disrupt cell cycle regulation and cause non-stop cell division forming tumors. Mitosis is applied in cloning through tissue culture techniques.