Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 17
Mechanisms and Consequences
of Centrosome Clustering in Cancer Cells
Alwin Krämer, Simon Anderhub and Bettina Maier
Abstract Ever since initially proposed by Theodor Boveri in 1914, centrosome
abnormalities have been accused to be involved in the induction of chromosomal
instability and tumorigenesis. New evidence especially on a mechanism termed
centrosomal clustering now again supports Boveri's idea and adds fuel to the old
debate on a mechanistic link between supernumerary centrosomes and malignant
transformation. On top, inhibiting centrosome clustering might well turn out to be
one of the long sought after possibilities to specifically interfere with tumor cells
while leaving healthy tissues untouched.
17.1 Introduction
Centrosomes are organelles that function as microtubule-organizing centers in
most animal cells. Besides controlling microtubule-associated processes like cell
shape and intracellular transport, they are of crucial importance for the assembly of
the mitotic spindle and subsequent cell division. Centrosomes consist of two
orthogonally arranged barrel-shaped centrioles which are embedded in pericent-
riolar material (PCM, Fig.
17.1
). Centrioles themselves are composed of a central
cartwheel structure surrounded by nine microtubule (MT) triplets which are ori-
ented anti-clockwise when observed from the proximal end (Fig.
17.1
) (Uzbekov
and Prigent
2007
). The PCM contains proteins required for MT anchorage and
nucleation including c-tubulin and pericentrin (Gould and Borisy
1977
; Doxsey
A. Krämer (
&
)
S. Anderhub
B. Maier
Clinical Cooperation Unit Molecular Hematology/Oncology, German Cancer Research
Center and Department of Internal Medicine University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg,
Germany
e-mail: a.kraemer@dkfz.de
