Lecture 18: Chromosome Movement Separation

Microtubules

Tubular structures made of tubulin heterodimers that play a crucial role in cell division and various cellular processes.

Kinetochore

Protein structure on the centromere of a chromosome where microtubules attach during cell division.

Centrosome

Microtubule organizing center in animal cells composed of two centrioles.

Polarity of Microtubules

Property of microtubules where one end (plus end) is distinct from the other end (minus end) due to varying chemical properties.

Tubulin

Protein subunits that make up microtubules and form heterodimers of alpha and beta tubulins.

Bioriented Attachment

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

Error in Attachment

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

Motor Proteins

Proteins like kinesin found in the kinetochore that play a crucial role in chromosome separation by promoting microtubule depolymerization and inducing chromosome movement during cell division.

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

Motor proteins that move towards the plus end of microtubules and are involved in various cellular processes, including chromosome separation.

Dynein

Motor proteins that move towards the minus end of microtubules and are involved in transporting organelles and generating movement in cells.

Astral Microtubules

Microtubules that radiate from the centrosome towards the cell periphery and play a role in cell division and cell shape.

Cytoplasmic Dynein

A type of dynein motor protein associated with astral microtubules that are connected to the cell cortex.

ATP Hydrolysis

The process of breaking down ATP molecules to release energy, which is essential for the movement of motor proteins within cells.