NUCLEOLI Meaning and
Definition
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Nucleoli are suborganelles that are present within the nucleus of eukaryotic cells. They are spherical structures that are not surrounded by a membrane and can be found within the cell nucleus. Nucleoli are responsible for the assembly and production of ribosomes, which are essential for protein synthesis within the cell.
The main function of nucleoli is the synthesis and assembly of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and the formation of ribosomes. They are composed of various proteins, ribosomal RNA, and DNA, as well as non-membrane bound compartments called fibrillar centers and dense fibrillar components. These compartments are involved in the transcription and processing of ribosomal RNA.
Nucleoli serve as the site where ribosomal subunits are formed and later exported to the cytoplasm to participate in the process of translation. They are particularly prominent in cells that require high levels of protein synthesis, such as rapidly dividing cells or cells that are involved in protein secretion.
The number and size of nucleoli can vary across different cell types and can be influenced by factors such as cell differentiation, growth rate, and cell cycle stage. Under certain circumstances, multiple nucleoli may be observed within a single nucleus.
In summary, nucleoli are subnuclear structures found within the nucleus of eukaryotic cells. They play a critical role in the production and assembly of ribosomes, which are essential for protein synthesis within the cell.
Common Misspellings for NUCLEOLI
Etymology of NUCLEOLI
The word "nucleoli" is derived from the Latin word "nucleolus", which translates to "small nucleus". The term was first coined by a German anatomist named Hermann Voss in 1893. It refers to a small, rounded body found within the nucleus of a cell. The plural form, "nucleoli", is used to refer to multiple nucleoli.
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