Final answer:
The nucleus in eukaryotic cells has several functions, including DNA replication, transcription, translation, cell division, and protein synthesis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nucleus in eukaryotic cells has several functions:
- DNA replication: The nucleus is where DNA replication occurs, ensuring that the genetic material is copied accurately before cell division.
- Transcription: Within the nucleus, genes are transcribed into mRNA, which carries the instructions for protein synthesis.
- Translation: While translation itself occurs outside the nucleus in the cytoplasm, the nucleus is responsible for exporting mRNA molecules that were transcribed from DNA.
- Cell division: The nucleus plays a role in cell division, as it breaks down during mitosis and meiosis when chromosomes form and cells divide.
- Protein synthesis: The nucleus controls gene expression and regulates which proteins the cell makes, contributing to overall protein synthesis.