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Related Concept Videos

The Nucleus01:32

The Nucleus

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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.
Arrangement of DNA within Nucleus
The regulation of gene expression inside the nucleus is dependent on many factors, including the DNA structure. The...
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Genomic DNA in Eukaryotes00:58

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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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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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Spindle Assembly02:50

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Spindle assembly occurs through three, often coexisting, pathways – the centrosome-mediated pathway, the chromatin-mediated pathway, and the microtubule-mediated pathway – collectively contributing to form a robust spindle apparatus.
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Additional Subnuclear Structures02:10

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The eukaryotic nucleus is a double membrane-bound organelle that contains nearly all of the cell’s genetic material in the form of chromosomes. It is rightly called the “brain” of the cell as it shoulders the responsibility of responding to various physiological processes, stress, altered metabolic conditions, and other cellular signals. 
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A Cell Free Assay to Study Chromatin Decondensation at the End of Mitosis
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Genome-Directed Cell Nucleus Assembly.

Sergey V Razin1,2, Sergey V Ulianov1,2

  • 1Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334 Moscow, Russia.

Biology
|May 28, 2022
PubMed
Summary

The cell nucleus functions as a mobile exoskeleton, not just a protective cage. Its structure dynamically forms around the genome, influenced by genetic activity and mechanical stresses.

Keywords:
cell nucleus assemblychromatingenome foldingliquid condensatesnuclear compartmentalizationnuclear mechanics

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Area of Science:

  • Cell Biology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Biophysics

Background:

  • The cell nucleus traditionally viewed as a static 'cage' housing the genome.
  • Functional compartments within the nucleus were thought to assemble on a proteinaceous nuclear matrix.
  • This matrix was believed to provide structural rigidity and facilitate genome organization.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review evidence challenging the static 'cage' model of the cell nucleus.
  • To present the nucleus as a dynamic, mobile exoskeleton.
  • To explore mechanisms of nuclear assembly and mechanical resistance.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent research findings.
  • Analysis of mechanisms mediating cell nucleus assembly.
  • Examination of factors contributing to nuclear resistance to mechanical stress.

Main Results:

  • The cell nucleus is increasingly understood as a dynamic structure.
  • It acts as a mobile exoskeleton formed around the genome.
  • Transcription and genome activity influence nuclear structure and mechanical properties.

Conclusions:

  • The cell nucleus is not a static container but a dynamic entity.
  • Its structure is actively shaped by genomic processes.
  • This dynamic structure contributes to nuclear resilience and function.