noun
- The specialized region of a chromosome where sister chromatids are held together and where kinetochore proteins attach during cell division.
Usage: biology; plural of centromere; essential for proper chromosome segregation during mitosis and meiosis
Examples
- During mitosis, centromeres ensure that sister chromatids separate correctly.
- The centromeres of human chromosomes contain repetitive DNA sequences.
- Kinetochore proteins bind to centromeres to pull chromosomes toward opposite poles of the cell.
- Mutations affecting centromeres can lead to chromosome instability and aneuploidy.
- Scientists study centromeres to understand how chromosomes are organized and maintained.