Nucleus

What are notable features of the nucleus?

1. Separated from the cytoplasm by a two-layered membrane.
   • Therefore, if a substrate binds to a plasma membrane receptor, it goes through endocytosis, travels through the cytoplasm in a vacuole and binds/fuses with the nuclear membrane, the substrate can travel from the extracellular environment to the nucleus without coming in contact with the intracellular cytoplasm.
2. Contains the genetic information of cells in the form of DNA which is packed into chromatin and wrapped around unique proteins (histones).
3. Pores within the nuclear envelope allow for substances to travel between the nucleus and the cytoplasm.
4. Principal coordinator of mitosis, meiosis and protein synthesis.

What is the nucleolus?

A factory for ribosome production and synthesis that is found within the nucleus.

How does the nucleus control protein synthesis?

The nucleus controls protein synthesis by (1) housing and controlling DNA transcription to messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA), and (2) regulating the delivery of mRNA to the cytoplasm for translation into proteins through nuclear pores.