Highlights d Deviation from normal cell size interferes with cell function and proliferation d DNA becomes limiting for cell function if cells grow too large d Uncoupling of protein synthesis and volume causes cytoplasm dilution in big cells d Excessive cell growth contributes to functional decline in senescence

No abstract

Partitioning of chromatids during mitosis requires that chromosome compaction and spindle length scale appropriately with each other. However, it is not clear whether chromosome condensation and spindle elongation are linked. Here, we find that yeast cells could cope with a 45% increase in the length of their longest chromosome arm by increasing its condensation. The spindle midzone, aurora/Ipl1 activity, and Ser10 of histone H3 mediated this response. Thus, the anaphase spindle may function as a ruler to adapt the condensation of chromatids, promoting their segregation regardless of chromosome or spindle length.