centrosome (cytocentrum)

Introduction

A zone of cytoplasm generally near the nucleus containing 1 or 2 centrioles, but devoid of other organelles. It is a microtubule organizing center & regulator of cell-cycle progression. Discovered in 1888 originally described as the 'special organ of cell division'. Plays a role in mitosis, but is not essential.

During interphase, generally associated with the nucleus. In mitosis, the nuclear membrane breaks down & the centrosome associated microtubules interact with the chromosomes to build the mitotic spindle.

More general terms

• cell region

Additional terms

• centrosomal protein