The nucleus is an organelle typically occupying about a tenth of the eukaryotic cell volume. It has a central role in gene expression, heredity and cell division by virtue of the presence of DNA. Indeed, the nucleus theoretically acts as a haven for precise interpretation of the genetic code away from the myriad of cytoplasmic functions.
There are a variety of proteins present which aid function e.g.:
DNA may be stored in a variety of ways within the nucleus e.g. within chromosomes, chromatids, chromatin, nucleosomes, Barr body or nucleolus. The nucleolus has a special function as the origin of ribosomal RNA. All nuclear components are suspended in amorphous nucleoplasm - karyolymph - and enveloped by a specialised nuclear membrane.
A few cells have dispensed with the nucleus at the expense of function e.g. haemoglobin storage in the mature erythrocyte.
Annotations allow you to add information to this page that would be handy to have on hand during a consultation. E.g. a website or number. This information will always show when you visit this page.