Kinetochore

Kinetochore

The Kinetochore is a complex protein structure that forms on chromatin during cell division. It is involved in the segregation of chromosomes between daughter cells during mitosis and meiosis. The kinetochore assembles on the centromere and links the chromosome to microtubule fibers of the mitotic spindle.

Structure

The kinetochore is a multi-layered structure, with distinct inner and outer layers. The inner kinetochore is associated with centromeric DNA and the outer kinetochore is where the microtubules attach. The layers are connected by a fibrous network, which provides structural support.

Function

The primary function of the kinetochore is to mediate the binding of the chromosome to the mitotic spindle. It achieves this through a process called chromosome segregation, which ensures that each daughter cell receives an equal complement of chromosomes. The kinetochore also plays a role in the spindle assembly checkpoint, which is a safety mechanism that ensures that all chromosomes are properly attached to the spindle before cell division proceeds.

Clinical significance

Defects in kinetochore function can lead to aneuploidy, a condition in which a cell has an abnormal number of chromosomes. This is a common feature of many types of cancer and is thought to contribute to tumor development and progression.

See also

• Centromere
• Chromosome segregation
• Mitosis
• Meiosis

References

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