Nucleus and Eukaryotic Cell Structure Notes

Vocabulary flashcards covering the key structures, components, and functions of the nucleus in eukaryotic cells based on lecture notes.

Nucleus

An organelle present in eukaryotic cells only, which controls cellular information via DNA, serves as the site of DNA replication, and produces RNA molecules.

Chromatin

A nuclear component containing non-histone proteins and DNA, which condenses and coils tightly to form chromosomes during cell division.

Nucleolus

A nuclear structure made from RNA and proteins that manufactures ribosomes with ribosomal proteins; a nucleus typically contains 2 or 3 nucleoli.

Nuclear envelope

A double membrane that separates DNA from the rest of the cellular contents, providing compartmentalisation.

Nuclear pores

Openings in the nuclear envelope through which ribosomes, mRNA, and tRNA pass out of the nucleoplasm into the cytoplasm of the cell.

Compartmentalisation

The separation of DNA from the rest of the cellular contents achieved by the double membrane nuclear envelope.