Department of Molecular Genetics, National Institute of Genetics and Graduate University for Advanced Studies, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan.
Chromosome Res. 2012 Jul;20(5):547-61. doi: 10.1007/s10577-012-9289-9.
The centromere is essential for accurate chromosome segregation during mitosis and meiosis to achieve transmission of genetic information to daughter cells. To facilitate accurate chromosome segregation, the centromere serves several specific functions, including microtubule binding, spindle-checkpoint control, and sister chromatid cohesion. The kinetochore is formed on the centromere to achieve these functions. To understand kinetochore structure and function, it is critical to identify the protein components of the kinetochore and characterize the functional properties of each component. Here, we review recent progress with regard to the molecular architecture of the kinetochore and discuss the future directions for centromere biology.
着丝粒对于有丝分裂和减数分裂过程中染色体的正确分离至关重要，以实现遗传信息传递给子细胞。为了促进染色体的正确分离，着丝粒具有几个特定的功能，包括微管结合、纺锤体检查点控制和姐妹染色单体的黏合。动粒在着丝粒上形成，以实现这些功能。为了了解动粒的结构和功能，识别动粒的蛋白质组成并描述每个组成部分的功能特性是至关重要的。在这里，我们回顾了动粒的分子结构的最新进展，并讨论了着丝粒生物学的未来方向。
