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Related Concept Videos

Nucleoid01:24

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The nucleoid represents a structurally and functionally distinct region within prokaryotic cells, where the cell's DNA and associated proteins are housed. Unlike eukaryotic cells, prokaryotes lack a membrane-bound nucleus, and the nucleoid facilitates the organization and accessibility of the genetic material within this constraint. The DNA in most bacteria and archaea exists as a single, circular, double-stranded molecule that is highly compacted through supercoiling and interactions with...
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The nucleus is a membrane-bound organelle that acts as a control center in a eukaryotic cell. It contains chromosomal DNA, which controls gene expression and precisely regulates the production of proteins within the cell. In contrast, the DNA inside the mitochondria and chloroplast only carries out functions that are specific to those organelles.
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Eukaryotes have large genomes compared to prokaryotes. To fit their genomes into a cell, eukaryotic DNA is packaged extraordinarily tightly inside the nucleus. To achieve this, DNA is tightly wound around proteins called histones, which are packaged into nucleosomes that are joined by linker DNA and coil into chromatin fibers. Additional fibrous proteins further compact the chromatin, which is recognizable as chromosomes during certain phases of cell division.
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The nucleolus is the most prominent substructure of the nucleus. When it was first discovered, it was considered to be an isolated organelle that forms fibrils and granules. In 1931, the relationship between the nucleolus and chromosomes was first described by Heitz. He observed that the appearance and size of nucleolus varies depending on the stage of the cell cycle. He also noticed constricted regions on different chromosomes clustered together at definite cell cycle stages. These regions,...
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Mapping Absolute DNA Density in Cell Nuclei using Single-molecule Localization Microscopy
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Nucleolar DNA: the host and the guests.

E Smirnov1, D Cmarko2, T Mazel2

  • 1First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic. esmir@lf1.cuni.cz.

Histochemistry and Cell Biology
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Summary

Nucleoli assemble around ribosomal DNA (rDNA) genes but contain diverse DNA elements. This review explores rDNA structure, function, and non-ribosomal DNA roles in nucleoli.

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Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Cell Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Nucleoli are essential cellular structures primarily associated with ribosomal RNA (rRNA) synthesis.
  • Their formation relies on ribosomal DNA (rDNA) genes, but nucleoli also contain other DNA elements.
  • Understanding the full spectrum of DNA within nucleoli is crucial for comprehending their function.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To comprehensively review the characteristics of ribosomal DNA (rDNA) and its organization within the nucleolus.
  • To explore the role of non-ribosomal DNA in nucleolar structure and function.
  • To discuss challenges in visualizing DNA within nucleoli.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of current research on rDNA structure, organization, and function.
  • Analysis of data concerning gene copy multiplicity, selective gene silencing, and replication.
  • Examination of the interplay between DNA components and nucleolar ultrastructure.

Main Results:

  • Ribosomal DNA (rDNA) loci exhibit complex organization, including intricate intergenic spacers with regulatory functions.
  • Multiple gene copies are present per cell, with mechanisms for selective gene silencing and cluster regulation.
  • Non-ribosomal DNA plays a significant, though less understood, role in nucleolar organization and function.
  • Specific challenges exist in the efficient visualization of DNA within the nucleolar environment.

Conclusions:

  • Nucleoli are complex structures involving not only rDNA but also a variety of other DNA regions.
  • The intricate organization of rDNA and the involvement of non-ribosomal DNA highlight the multifaceted nature of nucleoli.
  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate the roles of all DNA components and improve visualization techniques.