INTRODUCTION

• A nucleus is the membrane-enclosed organelle within a cell that contains the chromosomes. An
array of holes, or pores, in the nuclear membrane allows for the selective passage of certain molecules
(such as proteins and nucleic acids) into and out of the nucleus.
DEFINATION
• A nucleus is the structure in a cell that contains the chromosomes. The nucleus has a membrane
around it, and is where RNA is made from the DNA in the chromosomes.
• It is a double-membraned eukaryotic cell organelle that contains the genetic material.
• It is a specialized, usually spherical mass of protoplasm encased in a double membrane, and found
in most living eukaryotic cells.
STRUCTURE
1) Nuclear envelope:
• The nucleus is completely surrounded by the nuclear envelope. This consists of both
an inner and outer membrane which run parallel to each other. The envelope is perforated by small
gaps known as the nuclear pores.
2) Nuclear lamina:
• Mechanical support for the nucleus is provided by the nuclear lamina.
3) Chromatin:
• Chromatin is a complex of DNA and proteins that forms chromosomes within the nucleus of eukaryotic
cells. chromatin looks like beads on a string. The beads are called nucleosomes.
4) Nucleolus:
• The nucleolus is the site of ribosome and ribosomal RNA production. On microscopy, it appears as a
large dense spot within the nucleus. After a cell divides, a nucleolus is formed when chromosomes are
brought together into nucleolar organizing regions. During cell division, the nucleolus disappears.

FUNCTIONS
• The primary functions of the nucleus are to store the cell's DNA, maintain its integrity, and facilitate
its transcription and replication.
• Cell compartmentalisation: The presence of a selectively permeable nuclear envelope separates the
contents of the nucleus from that of the cytoplasm.
• Gene expression: Gene expression first requires transcription, which is the process by which DNA is
transcribed into mRNA. As the nucleus is the site of transcription, proteins within the nucleus play a key
role in regulating the process.
• Processing of pre-mRNA: Newly synthesised mRNA molecules are known as pre-mRNA. Before they
exit the nucleus, they undergo a process known as post-transcriptional modification where molecules
are added or removed from the structure.
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