Kinetochore orientation in mitosis and meiosis.

Kinetochores are the major point of contact between spindle microtubules and chromosomes. They are assemblies of more than 50 different proteins and take part in regulating and controlling their own interaction with the spindle. We review recent advance in understanding how kinetochores are properly placed onto the chromosome, and how their interaction with the microtubules of the spindle is regulated. Kinetochore orientation in meiosis I shows some particular features, and we also discuss similarities and differences between mitosis and meiosis I.