The Nucleus

The nucleus of a cell contains its DNA and is the site where DNA replication, transcription, and RNA processing take place. Nuclei have many domains but lack the membrane-bound organelles characteristic of the cytoplasm. Instead, nuclear bodies appear to dynamically self-organize, assembling and disassembling according to the functional demands of the cell. Written and edited by experts in the field, this volume includes contributions discussing the relationship between nuclear structure and function, the various nuclear bodies that have been identified, and the organization of the nuclear lamina and nuclear pore complex. Other contributions examine the higher-order organization of chromatin within the nucleus and the dynamics of DNA replication, transcription, DNA repair, and RNA transport. Including a historical introduction to the field and discussion of the numerous pathological conditions involving disruption of nuclear structure and function, this volume is essential reading for all molecular and cell biologists, as well as pathologists interested in the role of nuclear architecture in disease