MadSci Network: Cell Biology
Query:

Re: What is the difference between centrioles and asters?

Date: Fri Aug 15 06:01:11 2008
Posted By: Mike Klymkowsky, Professor
Area of science: Cell Biology
ID: 1218276055.Cb
Message:

cnetrioles and asters

Both centrioles and asters are composed of the protein tubulin - tubulin is composed of two polypeptides, alpha-tubulin and beta-tubulin.   Tubulins assemble into microtubules


Microtubules generally form a radial array (an aster) centered on what is known as the microtubule organizing center  or centrosome.  

The term aster is normally used in the context of a dividing cell 

In animal cells, centrioles are located within the centrosomal region. 

 

 

Centrioles themselves are composed of one complete and two "incomplete" microtubules, organized as a "triplet" microtubule (there are also a number of other proteins, in addition to tubulin in a centriole). 

Nine triplet microtubules are organized in a ring, and there are often two centrioles (oriented perpendicular to one another) within the centrosomal region. 

When the cell is about to divide, these centrioles separate and two centrosomes migrate to opposite sides of the cell and become the poles of the mitotic spindle.    

Before the cell can divide again, a new centriole is assembled. 
be bioliterate - support the bioliteracy project


Current Queue | Current Queue for Cell Biology | Cell Biology archives

Try the links in the MadSci Library for more information on Cell Biology.



MadSci Home | Information | Search | Random Knowledge Generator | MadSci Archives | Mad Library | MAD Labs | MAD FAQs | Ask a ? | Join Us! | Help Support MadSci


MadSci Network, webadmin@madsci.org
© 1995-2006. All rights reserved.