perinuclear region of cytoplasm

Definition

Target type: cellularcomponent

Cytoplasm situated near, or occurring around, the nucleus. [GOC:jid]

The perinuclear region of the cytoplasm is a distinct area surrounding the nucleus. It is characterized by a unique composition of cellular components and is involved in a variety of cellular processes.

**Components:**

* **Nuclear envelope:** The outer boundary of the nucleus, composed of two lipid bilayers separated by the perinuclear space. It is studded with nuclear pore complexes (NPCs), which act as gateways for the transport of molecules between the nucleus and cytoplasm.
* **Nuclear lamina:** A fibrous network of proteins that lines the inner nuclear membrane, providing structural support to the nucleus and playing a role in regulating gene expression.
* **Chromatin:** The genetic material of the cell, consisting of DNA and associated proteins. In the perinuclear region, chromatin is often more condensed than in other regions of the cytoplasm, reflecting its active role in transcription and replication.
* **Ribosomes:** The protein synthesis machinery of the cell. Some ribosomes are located in the perinuclear region, where they are involved in the translation of mRNAs that are transcribed from genes located near the nuclear envelope.
* **Endoplasmic reticulum (ER):** A network of interconnected membranes that extend throughout the cytoplasm. In the perinuclear region, the ER is often associated with the nuclear envelope and may play a role in the regulation of nuclear function.
* **Golgi apparatus:** A stack of flattened membrane-bound sacs involved in the processing and packaging of proteins and lipids. The Golgi apparatus is often located near the nucleus and is involved in the transport of these molecules to other cellular compartments.
* **Microtubules:** Filamentous structures that provide structural support and act as tracks for the transport of organelles and vesicles throughout the cytoplasm. Microtubules in the perinuclear region are often involved in the positioning of the nucleus within the cell.
* **Intermediate filaments:** Rope-like protein structures that provide mechanical strength to the cell. In the perinuclear region, intermediate filaments can form a network that connects the nucleus to the cytoskeleton.
* **Motor proteins:** Proteins that bind to and move along microtubules or intermediate filaments, transporting organelles and vesicles throughout the cytoplasm.

**Functions:**

The perinuclear region of the cytoplasm plays a key role in a variety of cellular processes, including:

* **Nuclear transport:** The perinuclear region is the site of transport of molecules between the nucleus and cytoplasm through the nuclear pore complexes.
* **Gene expression:** The perinuclear region is rich in chromatin and ribosomes, which are essential for the transcription and translation of genes.
* **Signal transduction:** The perinuclear region is a hub for signaling pathways, which transmit information from the cell's environment to the nucleus.
* **Cellular organization:** The perinuclear region plays a role in the organization of the cytoskeleton and the positioning of the nucleus within the cell.

The specific composition and function of the perinuclear region can vary depending on the cell type and its stage of development.'
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Proteins (191)

Compounds (3,992)