Algonquin College Health Program Assessment (AC-HPAT) Practice Exam

What role does a centriole play in cell division?

1. It aids in the replication of DNA

2. It is involved in the development of spindle fibers

3. It functions as the site of ATP production

4. It helps in the synthesis of proteins

The correct answer is: It is involved in the development of spindle fibers

The centriole plays a crucial role in cell division, particularly during mitosis and meiosis. Its primary function is to assist in the formation of spindle fibers, which are essential for separating chromosomes during cell division. Once the cell is prepared to divide, the centrioles replicate and move to opposite poles of the cell, organizing the microtubules that make up the spindle apparatus. These spindle fibers attach to the chromosomes and help ensure that each new daughter cell receives the correct number of chromosomes. In contrast, the other roles mentioned in the options are not associated with centrioles. The process of DNA replication occurs in the nucleus and involves other cellular structures such as the DNA polymerase and various other proteins, rather than centrioles. The site of ATP production is primarily the mitochondria, which are well-known for their role in energy metabolism, not centrioles. Lastly, protein synthesis takes place in the ribosomes, either free in the cytoplasm or attached to the endoplasmic reticulum; again, this is unrelated to the function of centrioles during cell division. Thus, the involvement of centrioles in developing spindle fibers clearly defines their essential role in facilitating accurate chromosome segregation in cell division.