What is the role of centrioles in cell division?

Centrioles play a crucial role in cell division, specifically during the process of mitosis. Their main function is to help organize the mitotic spindle, which is essential for the proper separation of chromosomes. During cell division, centrioles duplicate and move to opposite poles of the cell, where they facilitate the arrangement and orientation of spindle fibers. This organization ensures that chromosomes are accurately aligned and pulled apart during anaphase, allowing each daughter cell to receive the correct number of chromosomes.

The other options, while related to cell processes, do not directly pertain to the primary function of centrioles in cell division. For instance, DNA replication occurs prior to division and is managed by different cellular structures and enzymes. Cytokinesis, which is the division of the cytoplasm following mitosis, involves other cellular components like actin filaments rather than centrioles. Protein synthesis is conducted by ribosomes and the endoplasmic reticulum, not by centrioles. Therefore, identifying the role of centrioles as organizing the mitotic spindle during mitosis accurately highlights their critical function in ensuring successful cell division.