The word "nucleoplasm" refers to the viscous, jelly-like substance found within the nucleus of a cell. The spelling of this word is based on its Greek roots, with "nucleo" meaning nucleus and "plasm" meaning substance. The phonetic transcription of this word is /ˈnjuː.kli.oʊˌplæz.əm/, with the emphasis on the first syllable "nu," followed by "kleo" and "plas" with a schwa sound in between, and ending with "uhm." Proper spelling is crucial in scientific communication to avoid confusion and ensure accuracy.
Nucleoplasm is a term used in biology to describe the gel-like substance that fills the nucleus of a cell. It is a vital component of the cell nucleus, which houses and protects the genetic material of an organism. The nucleoplasm consists of a semi-liquid matrix that surrounds various structures within the nucleus, such as the chromosomes, nucleoli, and nuclear bodies.
Composed primarily of water, nucleoplasm also contains various dissolved solutes, including ions, proteins, and nucleic acids. These solutes play crucial roles in maintaining the overall structure and function of the nucleus. Additionally, nucleoplasm provides a suitable environment for gene expression and DNA replication.
The nucleoplasm serves as a medium for the transportation of molecules within the nucleus, allowing for the movement of proteins, RNA, enzymes, and other essential cellular components. It facilitates the processes of transcription and translation, where genetic information is transcribed from DNA into RNA and then translated into proteins, respectively.
Moreover, nucleoplasm is involved in regulating the spatial organization of the nucleus and maintaining the integrity of chromatin, the complex of DNA and proteins that forms our chromosomes. It also participates in signal transduction pathways, which are crucial for cellular communication and processes such as cell division and differentiation.
In summary, nucleoplasm is the viscous fluid found within the nucleus of a cell, contributing to the organization, protection, and functioning of the cell's genetic material.
The protoplasm, or colloid portion, of the nucleus of a cell; nuclear fluid or sap.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "nucleoplasm" comes from the combination of two components: "nucleo-" and "-plasm".
1. "Nucleo-" is derived from the Latin word "nucleus", meaning "kernel" or "central part". The term "nucleus" was initially used to refer to the central part of a cell that contains the genetic material. It was first introduced by the German botanist Robert Brown in 1831.
2. "-Plasm" is a combining form derived from the Greek word "plasma", which means "something formed" or "something molded". In biology, "plasm" is commonly used as a suffix to describe the fluid-like substance found within cells.
Combining these two components, "nucleoplasm" refers to the fluid-like substance present within the nucleus of a cell, where the genetic material is located.