Centrioles are organelles crucial for cell division in animal cells.
Centrioles: The Cell Division Organizers
Centrioles play a vital role in cell division. Here’s a breakdown:
- Definition: A centriole is an organelle involved in cell division or replication.
- Cell type: They are exclusively found in animal cells.
- Structure: Centrioles are composed of protein strands called microtubules.
- Arrangement: Specifically, they are made up of nine triplets of microtubules arranged in a cylinder.
Composition and Function of Centrioles
Here is a table summarizing the key features of centrioles:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | Organelle that aids in cell division. |
| Cell Type | Animal cells only. |
| Composition | Microtubules (protein strands). |
| Structure | Nine triplets of microtubules arranged in a cylinder. |
| Primary Role | Organizing the mitotic spindle during cell division. |
How Centrioles Work
During cell division, centrioles migrate to opposite poles of the cell. They then help organize the mitotic spindle, which separates chromosomes, ensuring each daughter cell receives the correct number of chromosomes.
