The Centrosome in Cell Replication and Early Development (Volume 49) (Current Topics in Developmental Biology, Volume 49)

Centrosomes play an integral role in the growth of cells and the ultimate development of many animals, and sometimes plants. In addition to the normal growth of cells, centrosomes can also play a key role in the spread of cancer and are of increased interest to both the genetics and oncology communities. Volume 49 of Current Topics in Developmental Biology will present all known research surrounding the centrosome, across a variety of systems, will be well referenced, and speculate where the research is headed.

• Discusses centrosomes and cancer, centrosomes and early development, and molecular biology of the centrosome
• Heavily illustrated, with many color figures
• Chapters written by international leaders in the field

Centrosomes and spindle-pole bodies are cellular organelles involved in the control of the organization of cell cytoplasm in eukaryotes. Collectively referred to as microtubule organizing centers, these organelles play a role in gametogenesis, fertilization, cell reproduction, maintenance of cell structure, cell movements, and control of the distribution of important regulatory molecules and membrane-bound organelles. Further, faulty control of centrosome numbers or centrosome components can contribute to diseases such as cancer and could contribute to infertility. The Centrosome in Cell Replication and Early Development presents a historical perspective of the field and reviews the recent explosive progress in our understanding of the molecular composition of centrosomes, the mechanism of microtubule nucleation, and the regulation of centrosome function during cell replication and early development of organisms.

Key Features

• Discusses centrosomes and cancer, centrosomes and early development, and molecular biology of the centrosome
• Heavily illustrated, with many color figures
• Chapters written by international leaders in the field