| This primary constriction of the centromere is a complex multifunctional domain that varies both spatially and temporally. This region, where sister chromatids are most tightly opposed during mitosis, is also the region where the spindle attaches to mitotic chromosomes. The kinetochore is a unique chromosomal domain at the surface of the centromere found in most mammalian chromosomes. It is the point of interaction between spindle microtubules and the chromosome. Proper functioning of the centromere and the kinetochore is imperative for separation of chromosomes at anaphase and to maintain proper execution of cell division.;One goal of modern cell biology has been to identify and characterize the molecular components of the centromere in order to understand the biochemistry of the processes that occur at the centromere during mitosis. This process has been facilitated by the discovery that autoimmune sera, recognize antigens localized to the centromere.;This thesis describes experiments providing evidence for identification of a new centromere protein CENP-F, using autoimmune sera from a carcinoma patient. Unlike other centromere proteins that associate with the centromere throughout the cell cycle, CENP-F is a cell cycle dependent protein. The discovery of this protein provides additional information in understanding the centromere composition. |
