Dictionary > Aster

Aster

Definition
noun, plural: asters
(cell biology) A star-shaped cluster of microtubules radiating from the pericentriolar region, and seen immediately before and during mitosis of an animal cell.
(botany) A plant genus of the family Asteraceae; the flower of this group.
Supplement
In cells, the role of astral microtubules in mitosis is to ensure correct positioning and orientation of the mitotic spindle apparatus based on cell polarity. Although this function is essential in mitosis, the process does not strictly require astral microtubules to progress.
Synonym(s):

  • Lavdovsky’s nucleoid
  • paranuclear body

See also:

  • mitosis
  • centriole
  • microtubule
  • astrosphere

    • Related form(s):

    • Amphiaster

    Last updated on July 23rd, 2021

    You will also like...

    squirrel
    Animal Water Regulation

    Animals adapt to their environment in aspects of anatomy, physiology, and behavior. This tutorial will help you understa..

    Plant Water Regulation
    Plant Water Regulation

    Plants need to regulate water in order to stay upright and structurally stable. Find out the different evolutionary adap..

    Water Cycle
    The Water Cycle

    The water cycle (also referred to as the hydrological cycle) is a system of continuous transfer of water from the air, s..

    Adaptation Tutorial
    Adaptation Tutorial

    Adaptation, in biology and ecology, refers to the process or trait through which organisms or the populations in a habit..

    Plant biology
    Plant Biology

    Plantlife can be studied at a variety of levels, from the molecular, genetic and biochemical level through organelles, c..

    Early Earth
    The Origins of Life

    This tutorial digs into the past to investigate the origins of life. The section is split into geological periods in the..

    Related Articles...

    No related articles found

    See all Related Topics