muüksus

Müüksus is a term of Estonian origin that translates to "nucleus" in English. In a biological context, it refers to the central, membrane-bound organelle found in eukaryotic cells that contains the genetic material, DNA. This DNA is organized into chromosomes, which dictate the cell's structure, function, and reproduction. The nucleus is often considered the "control center" of the cell because it regulates gene expression, controls growth and metabolism, and is essential for cell division.

The nucleus is enclosed by a double membrane called the nuclear envelope, which is perforated by nuclear pores. These pores regulate the passage of molecules between the nucleus and the cytoplasm. Within the nucleus, the genetic material exists as chromatin, a complex of DNA and proteins. During cell division, chromatin condenses to form visible chromosomes. The nucleolus, a dense structure within the nucleus, is primarily involved in ribosome synthesis. The word müüksus is not commonly used in international scientific literature, with "nucleus" being the universally accepted term.