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Centromere

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centromere

Chromosome

National Institutes of Health
Definition: A centromere is a region on a chromosome that joins two sister chromatids.

In prophase of mitosis, specialized regions on centromeres called kinetochores attach chromosomes to spindle polar fibers. These fibers help to manipulate and separate chromosomes during cell division.

During metaphase of mitosis, chromosomes are held at the metaphase plate by the equal forces of the polar fibers pushing on the centromeres.

During anaphase of mitosis, paired centromeres in each distinct chromosome begin to move apart as daughter chromosomes migrate centromere first toward opposite ends of the cell.

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