Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Hey,
So for my assignment i need to prove that the nucleus is the most important organelle in a eukaryotic cell. I understand the nucleus helps protein synthesis, reproduction, metabolism and it controls other organelles however why is it more important than organelles such as ribosomes, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum and etc. My teacher has mentioned reasons such as the cell won't know what to do because the cell controls them as a reason we shouldn't use, rather we should compare them using function and structure.
Thank you!

Hi,

I would not ask a question like that. Every organelle in a eukaryotic cell is important. It would be better to ask: Why is the nucleus important? And, of course, the reason is because it contains the DNA, the code to make all the proteins that the cell needs. But the nucleus wouldn't be any good without the ribosomes to produce proteins and ribosomes would not work without mitochondria to produce energy and nothing would survive without the cell membrane that encloses and regulates the cell.

So, think about the cell as a little city in which all the organelles are the water, power, transportation, food and communications infrastructure necessary for the city to function. Each has its job to do and no one part is more important than any other. When everyone is working at the top of their game then the city is marvelous. If one part fails, they all suffer.

If you still need help, let us know.

Sybee