A centrosome is an organelle found in most eukaryotic cells near their nuclei. It's responsible for pulling apart sister chromatids during cell division.
Think of the centrosome as a construction foreman at a building site. Just like the foreman directs workers where to go and what to do, the centrosome organizes microtubules and directs their movements during cell division.
Microtubule: A microscopic tubular structure present in numbers in the cytoplasm of cells, sometimes aggregating to form more complex structures.
Chromatid: Each of two threadlike strands into which a chromosome divides longitudinally during cell division. Each contains a double helix of DNA.
Spindle Fibers: Formed by the centrosomes, these are protein structures that move chromosomes during cell division.
Study guides for the entire semester
200k practice questions
Glossary of 50k key terms - memorize important vocab
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.