MICRONUCLEI Meaning and
Definition
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Micronuclei are small, round, and distinct structures that form within the nucleus of a cell during the process of cell division. They are commonly observed in cells undergoing certain forms of genetic damage or stress, such as exposure to radiation or chemicals.
In simple terms, micronuclei are abnormal structures that develop when a cell's genetic material, including chromosomes, is not properly distributed during cell division. This can result in the formation of additional nuclei apart from the main nucleus, which are known as micronuclei.
Micronuclei can be identified and studied using various techniques, such as microscopic examination of stained cells or specialized assays. Their presence and characteristics can provide valuable information about the genetic integrity and potential damage or alterations in a cell's DNA. The detection of micronuclei is often used in research and clinical settings to assess genotoxic effects and chromosome instability, as well as to evaluate potential risks associated with environmental exposures or certain therapies.
Overall, micronuclei are abnormal structures that arise from faulty cell division and indicate genetic damage or stress. They serve as important indicators in the field of biology and medicine, helping to understand the effects of genotoxic agents and evaluate the potential risks to cells and organisms.
Etymology of MICRONUCLEI
The word "Micronuclei" is derived from the combination of two distinct terms: "micro" and "nuclei".
- Micro: It comes from the Greek word "mikros", meaning small or tiny.
- Nuclei: It refers to the plural form of the word "nucleus". The term "nucleus" originates from the Latin word "nūcleus", meaning the core or center.
Therefore, "Micronuclei" essentially means small or tiny nuclei.
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