A mechanism linking extra centrosomes to chromosomal instability
Authors: Ganem, Neil J. and Godinho, Susana A. and Pellman, David Year: 2009 Journal: Nature
Abstract
The mechanism underlying chromosomal instability (CIN), an increased rate of gain or loss of whole chromosomes that is common in cancer cells, has been the subject of much debate. Long-term live-cell imaging now reveals that extra-centrosomal cancer cells pass through a transitory multipolar spindle stage, when abnormal kinetochore-microtubule attachments accumulate. Many attachment errors persist even after the extra centrosomes cluster to form proper bipolar spindles, increasing the likelihood of chromosome missegregation. The cover shows a transient multipolar spindle intermediate in a human cell with extra centrosomes. Microtubules are shown red, centrosomes green and chromosomes white.