Abstract: This application relates to a newly identified animal cell structure, the midbody scar. This structure is a remnant of the midbody that is retained by one daughter cell following cytokinesis and persists through multiple subsequent cell cycles. The midbody scar can be useful as a marker of dividing cells or of a cell's replicative age.

Abstract: The invention includes nucleic acids and polypeptides that play important roles in centrosomes and cellular functions involving centrosomes. In addition, the invention encompasses antibodies, ribozymes, antisense nucleic acids, RNAis, and siRNAs that can be used to modulate the function of the nucleic acids and polypeptides of the invention. Such modulation can be useful in detecting, diagnosing, and treating abnormal centrosome function.

Abstract: New methods are provided to treat cell proliferative, or other, disorders, or symptoms thereof, by modulating (e.g., inhibiting) centrosomal genes or polypeptides. These methods can include gene silencing (e.g., siRNA), antibodies, aptamers, ribozymes, antisense nucleic acids, and small molecules.