Human PCNT (Pericentrin) knockout HEK-293T cell lysate

Supplementary information

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Pericentrin also known as PCNT is a large protein with a mass of approximately 360 kDa. It primarily localizes at the centrosome an organelle serving as the main microtubule organizing center in cells. Expressed in most cell types pericentrin is an essential structural component of the centrosome. Researchers often use pericentrin staining techniques to visualize centrosomes aiding in the study of cell division. This protein functions prominently as a centrosome marker facilitating centrosome image and imaging of centrosome-related structures.

Biological function summary

Pericentrin contributes significantly to maintaining centrosome integrity and organizing microtubules during cell division. It is a part of the pericentriolar material a complex that stabilizes and anchors microtubules to the centrosome. By forming a scaffold at the centrosome pericentrin plays an important role in recruiting other proteins like γ-tubulin enhancing its function in nucleating microtubules. The pericentrin protein is vital for proper spindle organization during mitosis affecting accurate chromosome segregation.

Pathways

Pericentrin is integral to the cell cycle and mitotic spindle assembly pathways. It interacts with several other proteins involved in mitosis including γ-tubulin and ninein to manage the assembly and stability of the mitotic spindle. By participating in these pathways pericentrin ensures correct cellular replication and division therefore maintaining genetic stability within organisms.

Mutations in the pericentrin gene have been linked to microcephalic osteodysplastic primordial dwarfism type II and Seckel syndrome. These conditions suggest a connection between defective pericentrin function and disruptions in cell division and growth. Studies also show that alterations in pericentrin levels can influence tumorigenesis by affecting centrosome function and chromosome segregation increasing the importance of this protein in cancer research.