Centromere (IMAGE) Michigan Medicine - University of Michigan Caption The centromere is the structure at the center of every X-shaped chromosome, where cells attached the long, thin spindles that pull the two copies of DNA apart during cell division. A new technique makes it much easier to study centromeres, and look for links to conditions such as Down syndrome. Credit University of Michigan Usage Restrictions Credit University of Michigan License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.