To gain a holistic understanding of cellular function, we must understand not just the role of individual organelles, but also how multiple macromolecular assemblies function collectively. Centrioles produce fundamental cellular processes through their ability to organise cytoskeletal fibres. In addition to nucleating microtubules, centrioles form lesser-known polymers, termed rootlets. Rootlets were identified over a 100 years ago and have been documented morphologically since by electron microscopy in different eukaryotic organisms. Rootlet-knockout animals have been created in various systems, providing insight into their physiological functions. However, the precise structure and function of rootlets is still enigmatic. Here, I consider common themes of rootlet function and assembly across diverse cellular systems. I suggest that the capability of rootlets to form physical links from centrioles to other cellular structures is a general principle unifying their functions in diverse cells and serves as an example of how cellular function arises from collective organellar activity.

中文翻译：

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中心根的结构和功能。

为了全面了解细胞功能，我们不仅必须了解单个细胞器的作用，还必须了解多个大分子组件如何共同发挥作用。中心粒通过其组织细胞骨架纤维的能力产生基本的细胞过程。除了使微管成核外，中心粒还形成鲜为人知的聚合物，称为小根。根茎在 100 多年前就被鉴定出来，并且在不同的真核生物中通过电子显微镜进行了形态学记录。已经在各种系统中创建了根尖敲除动物，从而深入了解了它们的生理功能。然而，根的精确结构和功能仍然是个谜。在这里，我考虑了不同蜂窝系统中 rootlet 功能和组装的共同主题。