Function of Nucleolus
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The nucleus of many eukaryotic cells contains a structure called a nucleolus. As the nucleus is the "brain" of the cell, the nucleolus could loosely be thought of as the brain of the nucleus. The nucleolus takes up around 25% of the volume of the nucleus. This structure is made up of proteins and ribonucleic acids (RNA). Its main function is to rewrite ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and combine it with proteins. This results in the formation of incomplete ribosomes. There is an uninterrupted chain between the nucleoplasm and the interior parts of the nucleolus, whichoccurs through a system of nucleolarpassages. These passages allow macromolecules with a molecular weight up to 2,000 kDato be easily circulated throughout the nucleolus. Because of its close relationship to the chromosomal matter of the cell and its important role in producing ribosomes, the nucleolus is thought to be the cause of a variety of different human diseases. |
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