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Related Concept Videos

Introduction to the Cytoskeleton01:33

Introduction to the Cytoskeleton

Overview of the Cytoskeleton
The cytoskeleton is a network of protein filaments present within the cell, having three distinct filaments ̶   microfilaments, microtubules, and intermediate filaments. Each has characteristic features that distinguish them, including the dynamics of their assembly and disassembly, mechanical properties, polarity, and the type of molecular motors associated with them. Earlier, they were thought to be present only in eukaryotic cells; however, their homologs were...
Studying the Cytoskeleton01:17

Studying the Cytoskeleton

The cytoskeletal architecture can be studied using different microscopic and biochemical techniques. Electron microscopy was instrumental in discovering the cytoskeletal architecture around the 1960s, which allowed obtaining structural information at a high-resolution level. However, the sample preparation procedure often limits this ability in biological samples. Several protocols have been developed over the years to optimize sample preparation. In one of the protocols known as rotary...
The Mitotic Spindle02:27

The Mitotic Spindle

The mitotic spindle—or spindle apparatus—is a eukaryotic, cytoskeletal structure made up of long protein fibers called microtubules. Formed during cell division, the spindle separates sister chromatids and moves them to opposite ends of a parental cell, where the now individual chromosomes are distributed to two daughter cell nuclei.
The bipolar configuration of the mitotic spindle facilitates chromosomal segregation, preparing the cell for division. One mechanism that ensures bipolar mitotic...
Attachment of Sister Chromatids02:57

Attachment of Sister Chromatids

As cells progress into mitosis, the nuclear envelope breaks down, and the condensed chromosomes are exposed to the array of bipolar microtubules of the mitotic spindle. The kinetochore, a large, disc-shaped protein complex, is present at the centromere region of the sister chromatids and acts as a binding site for the microtubules.  Usually, the plus-end of a single microtubule is embedded within the kinetochore. However, some kinetochores first establish lateral contact with the side-wall of a...
The Mitotic Spindle02:27

The Mitotic Spindle

The mitotic spindle—or spindle apparatus—is a eukaryotic, cytoskeletal structure made up of long protein fibers called microtubules. Formed during cell division, the spindle separates sister chromatids and moves them to opposite ends of a parental cell, where the now individual chromosomes are distributed to two daughter cell nuclei.
The bipolar configuration of the mitotic spindle facilitates chromosomal segregation, preparing the cell for division. One mechanism that ensures bipolar mitotic...
Attachment of Sister Chromatids02:57

Attachment of Sister Chromatids

As cells progress into mitosis, the nuclear envelope breaks down, and the condensed chromosomes are exposed to the array of bipolar microtubules of the mitotic spindle. The kinetochore, a large, disc-shaped protein complex, is present at the centromere region of the sister chromatids and acts as a binding site for the microtubules.  Usually, the plus-end of a single microtubule is embedded within the kinetochore. However, some kinetochores first establish lateral contact with the side-wall of a...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 9, 2026

Studying Mitotic Checkpoint by Illustrating Dynamic Kinetochore Protein Behavior and Chromosome Motion in Living Drosophila Syncytial Embryos
13:59

Studying Mitotic Checkpoint by Illustrating Dynamic Kinetochore Protein Behavior and Chromosome Motion in Living Drosophila Syncytial Embryos

Published on: June 14, 2012

Stefan Westermann: a close look at kinetochore function. Interviewed by Caitlin Sedwick.

Stefan Westermann

    The Journal of Cell Biology
    |December 7, 2007
    PubMed
    Summary

    Stefan Westermann investigates the yeast kinetochore, a crucial component for cell division. His research aims to understand its complex structure and vital functions in ensuring accurate chromosome segregation.

    Area of Science:

    • Cell Biology
    • Molecular Genetics
    • Biochemistry

    Background:

    • The kinetochore is a protein complex essential for chromosome segregation during cell division.
    • Understanding kinetochore structure and function is critical for comprehending cell cycle regulation and preventing aneuploidy.

    Discussion:

    • Stefan Westermann's research focuses on elucidating the intricate molecular architecture of the yeast kinetochore.
    • This work investigates the dynamic assembly and disassembly of kinetochore components during mitosis.

    Key Insights:

    • The study provides novel insights into the specific protein interactions that govern kinetochore assembly.
    • Findings reveal how kinetochore components contribute to the establishment of stable microtubule attachments.

    More Related Videos

    Preparation of Segmented Microtubules to Study Motions Driven by the Disassembling Microtubule Ends
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    Preparation of Segmented Microtubules to Study Motions Driven by the Disassembling Microtubule Ends

    Published on: March 15, 2014

    Immunofluorescence Analysis of Endogenous and Exogenous Centromere-kinetochore Proteins
    05:35

    Immunofluorescence Analysis of Endogenous and Exogenous Centromere-kinetochore Proteins

    Published on: March 3, 2016

    Related Experiment Videos

    Last Updated: Jul 9, 2026

    Studying Mitotic Checkpoint by Illustrating Dynamic Kinetochore Protein Behavior and Chromosome Motion in Living Drosophila Syncytial Embryos
    13:59

    Studying Mitotic Checkpoint by Illustrating Dynamic Kinetochore Protein Behavior and Chromosome Motion in Living Drosophila Syncytial Embryos

    Published on: June 14, 2012

    Preparation of Segmented Microtubules to Study Motions Driven by the Disassembling Microtubule Ends
    12:20

    Preparation of Segmented Microtubules to Study Motions Driven by the Disassembling Microtubule Ends

    Published on: March 15, 2014

    Immunofluorescence Analysis of Endogenous and Exogenous Centromere-kinetochore Proteins
    05:35

    Immunofluorescence Analysis of Endogenous and Exogenous Centromere-kinetochore Proteins

    Published on: March 3, 2016

    Outlook:

    • Future research will explore the functional consequences of structural variations in the yeast kinetochore.
    • This work may inform our understanding of kinetochore-related disorders in higher eukaryotes.