centrosome [Gk, kentron + soma, body] , a self-propagating cytoplasmic organelle present in animal cells and in the cells of some lower plants; it is important during cellular division. The structure, which consists of the centrosphere and the centrioles, is located near the nucleus of the cell center or attraction sphere and functions as the dynamic center of the cell, especially during mitosis. Also called cytocentrum, microcentrum, paranuclear body.
