title: Centrosome clustering and chromosomal (in)stability: a matter of life and death.
abstract: Centrosome abnormalities occur commonly in cancer, and contribute to chromosomal instability and tumorigenesis. New evidence on a phylogenetically conserved mechanism termed 'centrosomal clustering' provides exciting insights into how cells with supernumerary centrosomes adapt to avoid lethal multipolar divisions. Here, we highlight the emerging molecular basis of centrosome clustering, and its impact on asymmetric divisions of stem cells, chromosomal (in)stability and malignant transformation. Finally, pharmacological inhibition of centrosome clustering promises to selectively target tumor cells.
authors.affiliation: Clinical Cooperation Unit Molecular Hematology/Oncology, German Cancer Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine V, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 581, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany. a.kraemer@dkfz.de
authors.forename: Alwin
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Krämer
authors.forename: Bettina
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Maier
authors.forename: Jiri
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Bartek
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D045744:Cell Line, Tumor; D002471:Cell Transformation, Neoplastic; D018385:Centrosome / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D043171:Chromosomal Instability; D004249:DNA Damage; D006801:Humans; D008938:Mitosis / Q000502:physiology; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy; D008941:Spindle Apparatus / Q000235:genetics / Q000473:pathology