Three wise centromere functions: see no error, hear no break, speak no delay.
The main function of the centromere is to promote kinetochore assembly for spindle microtubule attachment. Two additional functions of the centromere, however, are becoming increasingly clear: facilitation of robust sister-chromatid cohesion at pericentromeres and advancement of replication of centromeric regions. The combination of these three centromere functions ensures correct chromosome segregation during mitosis. Here, we review the mechanisms of the kinetochore-microtubule interaction, focusing on sister-kinetochore bi-orientation (or chromosome bi-orientation). We also discuss the biological importance of robust pericentromeric cohesion and early centromere replication, as well as the mechanisms orchestrating these two functions at the microtubule attachment site.
Centre for Gene Regulation and Expression, College of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dow Street, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK.
Tomoyuki U
TU
Tanaka
Lesley
L
Clayton
Toyoaki
T
Natsume
D000818:Animals; D064107:Aurora Kinase B / Q000378:metabolism; D020090:Chromosome Segregation; D053960:DNA Breaks; D004261:DNA Replication; D006801:Humans; D018386:Kinetochores / Q000378:metabolism*; D008870:Microtubules / Q000378:metabolism; D015003:Yeasts / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism
D064107:Aurora Kinase B