The remarkable gene knockdown technique of RNAi has opened exciting new avenues for
genetic screens in model organisms and human cells. Here we describe the current state of …

Polarity establishment, asymmetric division, and acquisition of cell fates are critical steps
during early development. In this review, we discuss processes that set up the embryonic …

During meiosis, each chromosome must pair with its unique homologous partner, a process
that usually culminates with the formation of the synaptonemal complex (SC). In the …

Chromosome segregation requires stable bipolar attachments of spindle microtubules to
kinetochores. The dynein/dynactin motor complex localizes transiently to kinetochores and …

The centrosome is generally maintained at the center of the cell. In animal cells, centrosome
centration is powered by the pulling force of microtubules, which is dependent on …

Background The centrosome is the major microtubule organizing center (MTOC) in dividing
cells and in many postmitotic, differentiated cells. In other cell types, however, MTOC …

Mitochondrial fission and fusion are highly regulated by energy demand and physiological
conditions to control the production, activity, and movement of these organelles …

Gametogenesis in animal oocytes reduces the diploid genome content of germline
precursors to a haploid state in gametes by discarding ¾ of the duplicated chromosomes …

Meiotic chromosome segregation requires homologue pairing, synapsis, and crossover
recombination, which occur during meiotic prophase. Telomere-led chromosome motion has …

The spindle apparatus dictates the plane of cell cleavage, which is critical in the choice
between symmetric or asymmetric division. Spindle positioning is controlled by an …