title: The smooth and stable operation of centromeres.
abstract: The centromere functions as a unique chromosomal attachment site for microtubules. Appropriate microtubule attachment is fundamental for organized chromosome behavior during mitosis and meiosis. Hence, centromeres must function both smoothly and stably. However, centromeric DNA sequences are poorly conserved between species despite common functions and similar centromeric protein composition, which leads us to the question: how are centromeres established and maintained? In this review, we summarize the recent progress in deciphering the mechanisms of centromere function. Specifically, we focus our attention on mechanisms closely-related to centromeric DNA and chromatin. By gathering such information, we hope to reveal a new dimension to the true nature of centromeres.
authors: Laboratory of Chromosome Function and Regulation, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita, Japan.
authors: Yuki
authors: Y
authors: Ogiyama
authors: Kojiro
authors: K
authors: Ishii
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001324:Autoantigens / Q000235:genetics; D002503:Centromere / Q000145:classification / Q000235:genetics*; D000076247:Centromere Protein A; D002843:Chromatin / Q000235:genetics* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D002868:Chromosomal Proteins, Non-Histone / Q000235:genetics; D006801:Humans; D018386:Kinetochores / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D008540:Meiosis; D008870:Microtubules / Q000235:genetics* / Q000378:metabolism; D008938:Mitosis; D017422:Sequence Analysis, DNA
chemical_list: D001324:Autoantigens; D000076247:Centromere Protein A; D002843:Chromatin; D002868:Chromosomal Proteins, Non-Histone