nuclear envelope

Definition

Target type: cellularcomponent

The double lipid bilayer enclosing the nucleus and separating its contents from the rest of the cytoplasm; includes the intermembrane space, a gap of width 20-40 nm (also called the perinuclear space). [ISBN:0198547684]

The nuclear envelope (NE) is a double-membrane structure that encloses the genetic material of eukaryotic cells. It plays a critical role in regulating the movement of molecules between the nucleus and the cytoplasm, as well as in organizing and maintaining the structure of the nucleus. The NE consists of two lipid bilayer membranes, the inner nuclear membrane (INM) and the outer nuclear membrane (ONM), separated by a perinuclear space. These membranes are interconnected by nuclear pore complexes (NPCs), which are large protein assemblies that act as selective gates for the transport of molecules across the NE.

The INM is associated with the nuclear lamina, a meshwork of intermediate filament proteins called lamins. The lamina provides structural support to the nucleus, helps to organize the chromatin, and is involved in regulating gene expression. The ONM is continuous with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and is studded with ribosomes.

The NE is a highly dynamic structure that undergoes constant remodeling in response to cellular signals. For example, during cell division, the NE breaks down and then reassembles around the newly formed daughter nuclei. The NE also plays a role in a variety of cellular processes, including DNA replication, transcription, and RNA processing.'
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Proteins (48)

Compounds (1,070)