CenH3containing

CenH3containing refers to a set of proteins that are part of the centromeric histone H3 variant complex. In eukaryotes, the centromere is a specialized region of a chromosome essential for proper segregation during cell division. It serves as the attachment site for spindle fibers, which pull the chromosomes apart to daughter cells. The centromere is epigenetically defined by the presence of a specialized nucleosome, where the canonical histone H3 is replaced by a variant known as CENP-A in humans and other vertebrates, or CenH3 in a broader range of organisms.

The CenH3 protein plays a crucial role in establishing and maintaining the centromeric identity. It is incorporated into a specific subset of nucleosomes at the centromere, forming a unique chromatin structure that dictates the assembly of the kinetochore. The kinetochore is a large protein complex that physically links the centromere to the spindle microtubules. CenH3-containing nucleosomes are thought to provide a scaffold for the recruitment of other centromeric and kinetochore proteins, ensuring accurate chromosome segregation.

Research into CenH3 and its associated proteins is vital for understanding fundamental biological processes like cell division, genome stability, and the evolution of centromeres. Aberrations in CenH3 function or localization have been linked to various chromosomal abnormalities and diseases, including cancer. Therefore, CenH3containing proteins are a key focus in cell biology and genetics research.