centrosomie

Centrosomie is a term occasionally used to denote the centrosome, the primary microtubule organizing center of eukaryotic cells. In most current texts, centrosome is the preferred term, and centrosomie is rare, sometimes reflecting older nomenclature or cross-language usage. The centrosome typically consists of a pair of orthogonally arranged centrioles surrounded by pericentriolar material.

Functionally, the centrosome nucleates and organizes microtubules, organizing the mitotic spindle during cell division and shaping the cytoskeleton in interphase. It also participates in ciliogenesis by organizing basal bodies that seed cilia and flagella in many animal cells.

During the cell cycle, centrosomes duplicate once in S phase and separate to form the two poles of the spindle in mitosis. Their activity is tightly regulated by protein networks, including polo-like kinases and gamma-tubulin ring complexes.

Organisms vary in their use of centrosomes. Most plants and many fungi lack centrioles, using non-centrosomal microtubule organizing centers instead. In animals, centrosomes are important for rapid cell division and proper chromosome segregation.

Clinical relevance: Centrosome amplification or structural defects are associated with cancer and genomic instability. Abnormal centrosome function can also contribute to ciliopathies if basal body formation is impaired.

Terminology-wise, centrosomie remains a rare usage; most references use centrosome.