Structure of the Centromere
Imagine a chromosome like a letter ‘X’, even if you’ve never seen one through a microscope. You’ll notice that the middle part where the two arms of the ‘X’ meet is thinner, right? That’s the centromere. Sometimes, it’s not right in the middle, though.
There are two major components of centromere:
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Kinetochore |
DNA-associated proteins |
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Structure, Functions and Types of Centromeres
The word centromere came from two Greek words “Centro” and “Mere”, which mean “central” and “part” respectively. Centromere is a unique and well-maintained chromatin structure that plays a crucial role in the replication of chromosomes throughout the process of cell division. Centromeres do a lot of important jobs, like keeping sister chromatids together, moving chromosomes, sticking to microtubules, forming heterochromatin, and controlling the mitotic checkpoint.
In simple terms, centromeres are like the glue that holds chromosomes together. It also ensures that chromosomes are divided correctly when a cell splits in two. Let’s discuss more about the centromere with its structure, functionalities, and types in detail.
Table of Content
- What is Centromere?
- Structure of the Centromere
- Functions of Centromere
- Classification of Centromere
- Holocentric
- Centromere – FAQ