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What is the name of the cell organelle responsible for controlling the activities of a cell and containing the genetic material?
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The cell organelle responsible for the main activities of a cell and one which contains all the genetic material is known as the nucleus. It is also known as the command center of the cell. It houses the Deoxyribonucleic acid or the DNA. The DNA contains the genetic information of the cell which dictates the structure and the function of the cell. Thus, the nucleus controls the hereditary information of the cell. It also regulates transcription, replication, and translation. Apart from all this, the nucleus is involved in protein synthesis, cell division, and cell growth.
A nucleus consists of the following components:
1. Nucleolus: It is the innermost part of the nucleus. It houses chromatin, the genetic material. The nucleolus serves as an intermediary in the transfer of genetic material from one generation to another. Apart from that, it also facilitates cell division and RNA formation. The nucleolus disappears during cell division.
2. Nuclear envelope: It is the outermost layer of the nucleus. It is connected to the cytoplasm and is useful in the exchange of material inside and outside of the nucleus. It is attached to the endoplasmic reticulum and thus helps in protein synthesis. During cell division, the nuclear envelope breaks down.
3. Nucleoplasm: The inner matrix of the nucleus. It is mainly composed of water, dissolved ions, and chromatin. The nucleoplasm facilitates easy transport inside the nucleus. It also provides support and structure to the nucleus. The nucleolus floats in the nucleoplasm.
4. Chromatin: Chromatin is the genetic material inside the nucleus. It is a condensed form of the chromosome.
5. Pores: The nuclear pores are used to facilitate the transport of microcomponents from the nucleus to the cytoplasm, or vice versa.
Connected to the nucleus is the Endoplasmic Reticulum which is useful in protein synthesis, and lipid metabolism.