How Do You Spell PARANUCLEUS?

Pronunciation: [pˈaɹənjˌuːklɪəs] (IPA)

The term "Paranucleus" refers to a structure in the cell that is akin to the nucleus, but different in some aspects. The spelling of this word can be broken down into phonetic segments: /pærənjuːklɪəs/. The first syllable, "par," is pronounced with the short "a" sound and an "r" sound. The second syllable, "a," is pronounced with the "a" sound, as in "cat". The rest of the word has two syllables, "nu" and "cleus," which are pronounced with the vowel "oo" and "yoo" sounds. Overall, the word "Paranucleus" has a distinct and precise phonetic transcription.

PARANUCLEUS Meaning and Definition

1. Paranucleus refers to a distinct, specialized structure or organelle found in certain microorganisms and cells. It is typically located adjacent to the conventional nucleus and can be considered a supplementary or accessory component of the cell's genetic machinery. The paranucleus is typically spherical or oval-shaped, and its size can vary depending on the organism.

   In microorganisms such as ciliates, the paranucleus functions as an alternative nuclear organization to the primary nucleus or macronucleus. It serves as a reserve of genetic material and is involved in processes such as conjugation and reproduction. While the primary nucleus is responsible for controlling most cellular functions, the paranucleus plays a supportive role, storing and transmitting genetic information.

   In certain specialized cells of higher organisms, such as mammalian neutrophils or white blood cells, paranucleus refers to a region of condensed chromatin located near the nucleus. These cells often exhibit a multilobed nucleus, with lobes connected by thin nuclear strands, and the paranucleus is one of these lobes. The structure and function of the paranucleus in these cells are not well understood, but it is believed to play a role in the regulation of gene expression and immune responses.

   Overall, the term paranucleus refers to a supplementary nuclear structure found in certain microorganisms and specialized cells, which contributes to genetic processes or cellular functions. Further research is needed to fully understand the precise functions and mechanisms of this organelle in different organisms.

2. An accessory nucleus, or small mass of chromatin lying outside of, though near, the nucleus.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for PARANUCLEUS

• paraucleus

Etymology of PARANUCLEUS

The word "Paranucleus" is derived from two root components: "para-" and "nucleus".

- "Para-" is a prefix derived from the Greek word "para", meaning "beside" or "beyond".

- "Nucleus" comes from the Latin word "nucleus", which refers to the central or essential part of something.

Therefore, the word "Paranucleus" combines these root components to create a term that suggests something located beside or beyond the nucleus.

Plural form of PARANUCLEUS is PARANUCLEI