Quantitative Biology, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China. 3 . 4

Centrosomes are composed of centrioles surrounded by pericentriolar material. The two centrioles in G1 phase are distinguished by the localization of their appendages in the distal and subdistal regions; the centriole possessing both types of appendage is older and referred to as the mother centriole, whereas the other centriole lacking appendages is the daughter centriole. Both distal and subdistal appendages in vertebrate cells consist of multiple proteins assembled in a hierarchical manner. Distal appendages function mainly in the initial process of ciliogenesis, and subdistal appendages are involved in microtubule anchoring, mitotic spindle regulation and maintenance of ciliary signaling. Mutations in genes encoding components of both appendage types are implicated in ciliopathies and developmental defects. In this Review, we discuss recent advances in knowledge regarding the composition and assembly of centriolar appendages, as well as their roles in development and disease.

Automated summary

Centrosomes consist of centrioles surrounded by pericentriolar material. The mother and daughter centrioles in G1 phase can be distinguished by the localization of their appendages. Distal appendages are involved in ciliogenesis, while subdistal appendages have various functions including microtubule anchoring and mitotic spindle regulation. Mutations in genes encoding appendage proteins can lead to ciliopathies and developmental defects. This Review discusses recent advances in understanding the composition, assembly, and roles of centriolar appendages.