KARYASTER Meaning and
Definition
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A karyaster is a term used in the field of cytology and cell biology to describe a specific cellular structure that is formed during cell division, particularly in plant cells. Derived from the Greek words "karyon" meaning nucleus and "aster" meaning star, a karyaster refers to the star-like arrangement of microtubules and other cellular components that surround the nucleus in certain stages of cell division.
During mitosis, when a cell divides to form two daughter cells, the karyaster plays a crucial role in the organization and separation of genetic material. It is composed of microtubules called spindle fibers that emanate from opposite poles of the cell, forming a cage-like structure around the nucleus. These spindle fibers attach to and manipulate chromosomes, ensuring their even distribution to the daughter cells during segregation.
The formation and functioning of a karyaster are vital for accurate chromosome segregation and cell division. The microtubules of the karyaster exert forces that align and separate chromosomes, aiding in the proper distribution of genetic material. In addition, they help establish the cytokinetic furrow and coordinate the positioning of the newly forming daughter cells.
Studying the karyaster provides insights into the dynamics of cell division, chromosomal abnormalities, and the molecular mechanisms governing cellular processes. The analysis of karyaster structure and behavior has significant implications in fields like developmental biology, genetics, and cancer research, where understanding the complexities of cell division is crucial for advancing knowledge and therapeutics.
Common Misspellings for KARYASTER
- jaryaster
- maryaster
- laryaster
- oaryaster
- iaryaster
- kzryaster
- ksryaster
- kwryaster
- kqryaster
- kaeyaster
- kafyaster
- katyaster
- ka5yaster
- ka4yaster
- kartaster
- kargaster
- karhaster
- karuaster
- kar7aster
- kar6aster
Etymology of KARYASTER
The word "karyaster" is compounded from two Greek words: "karyon" (κάρυον) which means "nut" or "kernel", and "aster" (ἀστήρ) which means "star".
The term "karyaster" is commonly used in biology to refer to a star-shaped structure often observed in the cell nucleus during cell division, specifically in the metaphase stage of mitosis. The structure appears star-like due to the arrangement of chromosomes, resembling a central point surrounded by radiating arms.
The origins of "karyon" and "aster" can be traced back to Ancient Greek. The word "karyon" derives from the Proto-Indo-European root *ḱer- meaning "hard", which evolved to "karyon" to specifically represent the "hard part of a nut".
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