The nucleus in a cheek cell, like in all eukaryotic cells, serves as the control center and repository of genetic information. It houses the cell's DNA, orchestrating virtually all cellular activities.
Key Functions of the Nucleus in a Cheek Cell:
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Houses Genetic Material (DNA): The nucleus securely stores the cell's DNA organized into chromosomes. This DNA contains the instructions for building and maintaining the entire cell. [Source: By housing the cell's genome, the nucleus serves both as the repository of genetic information and as the cell's control center.]
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Regulates Cellular Activities: The nucleus controls and regulates various cellular processes, including growth and metabolism, by directing the synthesis of proteins and other molecules. [Source: The nucleus controls and regulates the activities of the cell (eg, growth and metabolism) and carries the genes, structures that contain the hereditary…]
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DNA Replication and Transcription: The nucleus is the site of DNA replication (duplication of DNA) and transcription (copying DNA into RNA). These processes are crucial for cell growth and division. [Source: By housing the cell's genome, the nucleus serves both as the repository of genetic information and as the cell's control center. DNA replication, transcription, and RNA processing all take place within the nucleus…]
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RNA Processing: The nucleus processes RNA molecules before they are exported to the cytoplasm for translation into proteins. [Source: By housing the cell's genome, the nucleus serves both as the repository of genetic information and as the cell's control center. DNA replication, transcription, and RNA processing all take place within the nucleus…]
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Maintains Genomic Integrity: The nucleus protects the cell's DNA from damage and ensures its accurate replication and transmission to daughter cells during cell division. [Source: The nucleus maintains the integrity of genes and controls the…]
Because cheek cells contain a nucleus with these crucial functions, they are frequently used in DNA extraction procedures. [Source: Because cheek cells have a nucleus and other organelles contained in a membrane, they are utilized to extract DNA. The nucleus' function is to hold this DNA…]
