PLK1-mediated phosphorylation cascade activates Mis18 complex to ensure centromere inheritance.

Accurate chromosome segregation requires the attachment of microtubules to centromeres, epigenetically defined by the enrichment of CENP-A nucleosomes. During DNA replication, CENP-A nucleosomes undergo dilution. To preserve centromere identity, correct amounts of CENP-A must be restored in a cell cycle-controlled manner orchestrated by the Mis18 complex (Mis18α-Mis18β-Mis18BP1).