Cytocentrum

/ˌsaɪtəˈsɛntrəm/ noun

Definition

The centrosome or centrosphere of a cell, an organelle near the nucleus that organizes microtubules and helps direct cell division.

Etymology

From Greek 'kytos' (cell) + Latin 'centrum' (center). Coined in late 19th-century cytology to describe the centrally-located structure observed around the nucleus.

Kelly Says

The cytocentrum contains centrioles that spin like tiny turbines during cell division, organizing the 'spindle fibers' that pull chromosomes apart—it's basically the cell's construction crane!

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