MEGANUCLEUS Meaning and
Definition
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A meganucleus refers to the enlarged, distinct, and genetically active nucleus that can be found in certain single-celled organisms. Specifically, it is a defining characteristic of ciliate protozoa within the phylum Ciliophora. Ciliates are a diverse group of microscopic organisms that possess cilia, small hair-like structures, on their surface that enable them to move and capture food.
The meganucleus serves as the primary organelle for genetic material within ciliates. It contains numerous copies of the organism's genome and is responsible for the regulation of gene expression and cellular processes. The meganucleus undergoes a process called mitosis, wherein the DNA replicates and is divided equally into two daughter nuclei during cell division.
Due to the presence of multiple copies of the genome, the meganucleus plays a vital role in controlling gene expression and cellular differentiation in ciliates. It ensures the proper level of gene activation and coordinates various cellular processes, such as cell division, reproduction, and response to environmental cues.
In addition to the meganucleus, ciliates also possess one or multiple micronuclei, which are responsible for sexual reproduction and genetic exchange. Unlike the active meganucleus, the micronucleus remains quiescent during most cellular activities and only becomes active during specific stages of sexual reproduction or genetic recombination.
Overall, the meganucleus is an essential component of ciliated protozoa, acting as the central hub for gene regulation, genetic control, and cellular coordination.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MEGANUCLEUS
- meganuclgus
- meganucle5s
- meganuclees
- meganucleqs
- meganuclews
- meganuclets
- meganucleu3
- meganucleuc
- meganucleuq
- meganucleur
- m eganucleus
- me ganucleus
- meg anucleus
- mega nucleus
- megan ucleus
- meganu cleus
- meganuc leus
- meganucl eus
- meganucle us
- meganucleu s
Etymology of MEGANUCLEUS
The word "meganucleus" is derived from two parts: "mega" and "nucleus".
1. "Mega" comes from the Greek word "megas" (μέγας), which means "big" or "great".
2. "Nucleus" also comes from Greek and is derived from "nux" (νύξ), meaning "kernel" or "nut".
When combined, "meganucleus" refers to a large nucleus, typically found in certain single-celled organisms.
