What type of genetic alteration is characterized by the involvement of the centromere?

Pericentric inversion involves the centromere as a crucial component of its structure. This type of chromosomal alteration occurs when a segment of a chromosome, which includes the centromere, is reversed end to end. The inversion can affect the genetic material on either side of the centromere, which is crucial for the proper segregation of chromosomes during cell division.

In contrast, translocations involve the transfer of a segment of one chromosome to another chromosome and do not necessarily include the centromere. Deletion refers to the loss of a segment of the chromosome, and duplication involves the presence of an extra segment of genetic material. Neither deletion nor duplication specifically requires involvement with the centromere in their definitions. Therefore, pericentric inversion is distinct in its direct relationship with the centromere, making it the correct choice for this question.