KINETOCHORE Meaning and
Definition
-
A kinetochore is a structure that forms on the centromere region of a chromosome during cell division. It is composed of proteins and serves as a crucial attachment point for microtubules that assist in the accurate segregation of chromosomes during mitosis and meiosis.
The kinetochore is responsible for ensuring the proper alignment and separation of chromosomes during cell division. It acts as a link between the centromere region of the chromosome and the microtubules of the spindle apparatus. The microtubules, which are part of the cytoskeleton, function as tracks for the movement of chromosomes during cell division.
During mitosis, the process by which a cell divides into two identical daughter cells, the kinetochore forms on each sister chromatid of a duplicated chromosome. The kinetochores of sister chromatids attach to microtubules emanating from opposite poles of the spindle, allowing the chromosomes to align at the metaphase plate. This ensures that each daughter cell receives an accurate and complete set of chromosomes.
The kinetochore also plays a role in signaling the cell cycle checkpoints, which ensure the fidelity of chromosome segregation. If the kinetochores are not properly attached to the microtubules or if there are errors in chromosome alignment, the cell cycle checkpoints may delay cell division or trigger mechanisms to correct the errors.
In summary, the kinetochore is a proteinaceous structure that forms on the centromere region of chromosomes during cell division. It provides a site for the attachment of microtubules and is essential for the accurate segregation of chromosomes during mitosis and meiosis.
Common Misspellings for KINETOCHORE
- jinetochore
- minetochore
- linetochore
- oinetochore
- iinetochore
- kunetochore
- kjnetochore
- kknetochore
- konetochore
- k9netochore
- k8netochore
- kibetochore
- kimetochore
- kijetochore
- kihetochore
- kinwtochore
- kinstochore
- kindtochore
- kinrtochore
- kinetoshore
- Kinetechore
- Kineteshore
- Kinitochore
Etymology of KINETOCHORE
The word "kinetochore" is derived from the Greek words "kinesis" meaning "movement" and "khoros" meaning "dancing place" or "space". The term was coined in 1912 by the American geneticist Theophilus Painter to refer to the specialized protein structure located at the centromere region of a chromosome during cell division, where microtubules attach and exert forces to move the chromosomes. The term reflects the dynamic and coordinated movements associated with the process of cell division.
Similar spelling words for KINETOCHORE
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
