centrosome

views updated Jun 27 2018

centrosome (cell centre; centrosphere) A specialized region of all eukaryote cells except fungi, situated next to the nucleus, that organizes the microtubules of the spindle during cell division. It also serves as the chief microtubule-organizing centre in animal cells. The centrosomes of most animal cells contain a pair of centrioles. During metaphase of mitosis and meiosis, the centrosome separates into two regions, each containing one of the centrioles (where present). The two regions move to opposite ends of the cell and a spindle forms between them.

centrosome

views updated May 17 2018

centrosome In a cell, the distinct part of the cytoplasm that organizes the assembly and disassembly of microtubules and which contains the centriole. It occurs in only a few lower plants.

centrosome

views updated May 29 2018

centrosome In cell, the distinct part of the cytoplasm that contains the centriole.

centrosome

views updated May 14 2018

centrosome (centrosphere) (sen-trŏ-sohm) n. an area of clear cytoplasm, found next to the nucleus in nondividing cells, that contains the centrioles.