Chromosome passenger homepage

Biological function of chromosome passengers Drosophila INCENP Chromosome passenger proteins are proteins that are chromosomal early in mitosis, but transfer to the mitotic spindle and cell cortex in anaphase. The term derives from an early theory that these proteins are important for cytokinesis, and "ride" on the chromosomes to reach the centre of the cell at metaphase, in the plane of the future cleavage furrow.

To date four passengers are known: TD-60, INCENP, Aurora-B, and survivin. Recent work shows that these proteins are required not just for cytokinesis but also for chromosome condensation, chromosome alignment at the metaphase plate, and sister chromatid separation.

The aim of this site is to act as a repository for information on these proteins, and to stimulate debate among researchers working in the field.
Publications
Image gallery
Drosophila chromosomal passengers
Unanswered questions
Contact Drosophila syncytial embryos at anaphase - INCENP
(red) localises to the central spindle
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