The Nucleus Functions of the nucleus Storage of genes on chromosomes Transportation of regulatory factors & gene products via nuclear pores Separation of: DNA from cytosol Transcription from translation Organisation of: genes into chromosomes (to allow cell division) uncoiling of DNA to replicate key genes Production of: messenger RNA ( mRNA ) that code for proteins ribosomal RNA (rRNA) in the nucleolus Components within the nucleus Nuclear envelope: double membrane, each membrane is a phospholipid bilayer Nuclear pore: controls entry and exit from the nucleus e.g. of RNA proteins Nuclear lamina: a series of structural proteins found on the inner membrane of the nuclear envelope, provide structural support Nuclear matrix: scaffold proteins Nucleoplasm: viscous medium