Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

centriole

Noun

/ˈsɛntrɪoʊl/

Definition

A centriole is a cylindrical cell structure composed mainly of a protein called tubulin, which plays a key role in cell division and the organization of microtubules in the cell.

Examples

Centrioles help in organizing the microtubules that segregate chromosomes during cell division.
During the process of mitosis, centrioles align themselves at the poles of the dividing cell.
Centrioles are present in almost all eukaryotic cells, excluding higher plants and fungi.

Meaning

Centrioles are essential components found in animal cells, typically occurring in pairs and involved in the formation of spindle fibers during cell division.