PCM (Pericentriolar Material)

Pericentriolar Material (PCM) is a dense, protein-rich region surrounding the core of the centrosome, an organelle crucial for cell division and organization of microtubules. The PCM functions as a hub for anchoring and activating microtubule-nucleating complexes, primarily the γ-tubulin ring complexes. These complexes facilitate the formation of microtubules, which are essential for maintaining cell shape, positioning organelles, and ensuring proper chromosome segregation during cell division. In essence, the PCM provides a specialized environment that enables the centrosome to organize and nucleate microtubules efficiently.