Centrosomes in Asymmetric Cell Division and Neocortical Development

Abstract

Abstract Centrosomes play crucial roles in the homeostasis and cell cycle progression of many different cell types, and neural stem and progenitor cells (NSPCs) are not the exception. In fact, NSPCs could be among the cell types where the functions and characteristics of centrosomes are most diverse and unique. From spindle orientation to subcellular organization to primary cilium formation and beyond, centrosome functions are intimately linked to the highly polarized and dynamic architecture of NSPCs in the cerebral neocortex. This leads us to argue that centrosomes are among the organelles that most influence the cytoarchitecture of NSPCs, which translates into a decisive influence in their proliferation, differentiation and tissue and organ formation properties. Key Concepts Centrosomes are crucial for the cell and tissue biology of neural stem and progenitor cells (NSPCs). Centrosomes control symmetric vs. asymmetric cell division in NSPCs. Many genes implicated in neurodevelopmental disorders, such as primary microcephaly, encode centrosome proteins. Centrosomes also fulfil essential nonmitotic functions, such as primary cilium formation. NSPC proliferation and differentiation are influenced in diverse ways by centrosomes.