Mitotic dynamics of the nuclear lamina behind the scenes of chromosome separation

The regulation of mitosis is essential for genome inheritance and stability. In mammals, many cellular ultrastructures, including the nuclear envelope, undergo significant morphological changes to facilitate chromosome separation. In particular, the lamina, a key nuclear envelope subcompartment, experiences drastic structural changes throughout mitosis, from its rapid and complete dissociation during the nuclear envelope breakdown to its reassembly during mitotic exit. Interestingly, intermediate states of assembly of both A and B-type lamins, the major components of the lamina, have been reported to support mitotic progression and spindle formation. Here we review the various contributions of lamins to mitosis, beyond nuclear envelope breakdown and reassembly. In addition, we discuss how lamin defects in pathological contexts affect mitosis and thus genome stability.