The nucleus of the cell plays an important role in the work of cells in the body. Because of its importance, this organ known as the nucleus is found in every cell of the human body, except for certain cells, such as red blood cells.
Basically, cells consist of several organs or structures called organelles. The cell nucleus or nucleus is the largest and most prominent organelle in the cell body. The nucleus of this cell is enclosed by a nuclear envelope (membrane) that contains chromosomes.
Cell Nuclear Function
Each organelle has a different role. The nucleus of the cell itself has the main function as an information center and control of all cell activities. If likened to the human body, the cell nucleus or nucleus has a role similar to the brain.
Not only that, some other functions of the cell nucleus or nucleus are:
- Stores genetic information in the form of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)
- Controls cell growth and division
- Regulates cell metabolism by synthesizing various enzymes
- Producing RNA
- Produce ribosomes
From the various functions of the nucleus mentioned above, it is not surprising that this one organelle is considered the most vital and prominent compared to other types of organelles. In fact, the cell nucleus accounts for about 25 percent of the cell's volume.
Cell Nuclear Parts
In general, the cell nucleus or nucleus consists of four main parts, namely:
1. Core sheath
The nuclear envelope is a smooth membrane that lines the cell nucleus. This part of the cell has a function as a protector as well as a separator from other organelles. The envelope of the cell nucleus has small gaps or pores through which molecules enter and leave.
2. Nucleoplasm
Nucleoplasm is a thick fluid inside the cell nucleus or nucleus that contains many proteins and other substances, such as minerals, DNA, and RNA. Besides functioning as a place to process various enzymes, this part called the karyoplasm also plays a role in helping to maintain the shape and structure of the cell nucleus.
3. Nucleolus
The nucleolus is the inside of the cell nucleus which is round, solid, and dark in color. The nucleolus is not equipped with a membrane (protective membrane) on the outside. This part plays an important role in producing ribosomes which act as the site of protein formation in the cell.
4. Chromosomes
Chromosomes are structures in the form of fine threads located in the nucleus of the cell. Chromosomes contain a collection of DNA that stores genetic information. To function properly, DNA needs to be combined with proteins. This combination of DNA and protein in chromosomes is also known as chromatin.
After knowing the function of the cell nucleus and its parts, we can realize that this largest organelle has a very important role in human survival. Therefore, it is important to protect the body's cells from exposure to free radicals and their negative effects, so that we can avoid various chronic diseases.