Lecture 18: Chromosome Movement Separation

Microtubules

Tubular structures made of tubulin heterodimers that play a crucial role in cell division by attaching to chromosomes through kinetochores.

Kinetochore

Protein structure on the centromere of a chromosome that binds to microtubules and is essential for chromosome movement and separation during cell division.

Centrosome

Microtubule organizing center in animal cells composed of two centrioles, crucial for the organization and attachment of microtubules during cell division.

Polarity

Property of microtubules where one end (plus end) is distinct from the other end (minus end), influencing their structure and function.

Tubulin

Protein subunits that make up microtubules, consisting of alpha and beta tubulins that associate to form the tubulin heterodimers.

Bioriented Attachment

Correct mode of microtubule attachment during cell division where microtubules from opposite poles are attached to corresponding kinetochores, ensuring proper chromosome separation.

Error in Attachment

Incorrect modes of microtubule attachment such as syntelic (microtubules from a single pole attached to kinetochore) and merotelic (microtubules from both poles attached to the same kinetochore) that hinder chromosome separation.

Motor Proteins

Proteins like kinesin found in kinetochores that play a crucial role in chromosome separation during cell division by promoting microtubule depolymerization and moving chromosomes towards the cell poles.

Microtubules

Tubular structures within cells that play a crucial role in cell division and intracellular transport.

Kinetochore

A structure on chromatids where spindle fibers attach during cell division to pull the chromosomes apart.

Centrosome

An organelle near the nucleus of a cell that contains the centrioles and is involved in the organization of the spindle fibers.

Motor Proteins

Proteins that generate force and movement within cells by interacting with cytoskeletal elements like microtubules.

Anaphase

The stage of cell division in which the chromosomes are pulled apart towards opposite ends of the cell.

Kinesin

A type of motor protein that moves towards the plus end of microtubules and is involved in various cellular processes, including chromosome separation.