NUCLEAR MEMBRANES Meaning and
Definition
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Nuclear membranes refer to the double-layered membranes that surround the nucleus of a eukaryotic cell. They are also known as nuclear envelopes and act as a protective barrier, separating the contents of the nucleus from the cytoplasm of the cell.
The nuclear membrane is composed of two phospholipid bilayers, known as the inner and outer nuclear membranes. These two membranes are separated by a small space called the perinuclear space. There are also specialized protein complexes, called nuclear pores, present on the nuclear membrane, which allow for the exchange of molecules between the nucleus and the cytoplasm.
The inner nuclear membrane is directly in contact with the chromatin, which is the complex of DNA and proteins that make up the genetic material of the cell. It contains special proteins that play a role in organizing the chromatin and regulating gene expression.
The outer nuclear membrane is contiguous with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), which is a network of membrane-bound compartments involved in protein synthesis and lipid metabolism. This connection allows for the transport of proteins and lipids between the ER and the nucleus.
Overall, the nuclear membranes serve as essential structures for maintaining the integrity and functionality of the nucleus. They provide protection for the DNA and control the movement of molecules in and out of the nucleus, ensuring proper cellular function and gene expression.
Common Misspellings for NUCLEAR MEMBRANES
- buclear membranes
- muclear membranes
- juclear membranes
- huclear membranes
- nyclear membranes
- nhclear membranes
- njclear membranes
- niclear membranes
- n8clear membranes
- n7clear membranes
- nuxlear membranes
- nuvlear membranes
- nuflear membranes
- nudlear membranes
- nuckear membranes
- nucpear membranes
- nucoear membranes
- nuclwar membranes
- nuclsar membranes
- nucldar membranes
Etymology of NUCLEAR MEMBRANES
The word "nuclear" is derived from the Latin word "nucleus", meaning "kernel" or "core". It is also related to the Latin word "nux" meaning "nut". In the context of biology, "nuclear" refers to the nucleus, the central and most important part of a cell.
The word "membranes" evolved from the Latin word "membrana", which denotes a thin layer, film, or sheet. It is derived from "membrum", meaning "limb" or "member".
Therefore, the term "nuclear membranes" refers to the thin, protective layers that surround the nucleus of a cell.
