Nucleus

Definition

The nucleus is an organelle found in eukaryotic cells that contains most of the cell's genetic material, organized as multiple long linear DNA molecules in complex with a large variety of proteins, such as histones, to form chromosomes. It acts as the control center of the cell, regulating gene expression and mediating the replication of DNA during the cell cycle.

Related terms

Chromosomes: Structures within the nucleus composed of DNA and proteins that contain most of the cell's genetic information.

Gene expression: The process by which information from a gene is used in the synthesis of a functional gene product, typically protein or RNA, effectively turning genes on or off.

Cell cycle: The series of events that take place in a cell leading to its division and duplication (replication), ensuring proper growth and function