Fidelity during chromosome segregation is essential to prevent aneuploidy. The 
proteins and chromatin at the centromere form a unique site for kinetochore 
attachment and allow the cell to sense and correct errors during chromosome 
segregation. Centromeric chromatin is characterized by distinct chromatin 
organization, epigenetics, centromere-associated proteins and histone variants. 
These include the histone H3 variant centromeric protein A (CENPA), the 
composition and deposition of which have been widely investigated. Studies have 
examined the structural and biophysical properties of the centromere and have 
suggested that the centromere is not simply a 'landing pad' for kinetochore 
formation, but has an essential role in mitosis by assembling and directing the 
organization of the kinetochore.