what does the nucleus do

The nucleus is a pivotal organelle that regulates almost all forms of cellular activities. It is a membrane-bound structure that contains the genetic material of a cell. The primary functions of the nucleus are to store the cells DNA, maintain its integrity, and facilitate its transcription and replication. The nucleus serves as the repository of genetic information and as the cell's control center. DNA replication, transcription, and RNA processing all take place within the nucleus, with only the final stage of gene expression (translation) localized to the cytoplasm. The presence of a nucleus allows gene expression to be regulated by posttranscriptional mechanisms, such as alternative splicing. By limiting the access of proteins to the genetic material, the nuclear envelope also provides novel opportunities for the control of gene expression at the level of transcription. The nucleus controls and regulates the activities of the cell, such as growth and metabolism, and carries the genes, structures that contain the hereditary information. The gel-like matrix in which the nuclear components are suspended is the nucleoplasm. The nucleus also coordinates the cell's activities, which include growth, metabolism, and reproduction. The nuclear envelope separates the contents of the nucleus from the cellular cytoplasm and is riddled with holes called nuclear pores that allow specific types and sizes of molecules to pass through. The presence of pores in the nuclear membrane allows molecules to go in and out of the nucleus, and RNA can be transported to the cytoplasm for further processing.