Definition
The membrane that surrounds the nucleus.
Use in clinical context
The nuclear envelope keeps the cell’s DNA separate from the rest of the cell, protecting it from damage and contributing to the regulation of gene transcription. During cell division, the nuclear envelope is broken down to allow the spindle to form and chromosomes to be pulled to either end of the cell. Following this process the nuclear envelope reforms.
Related terms
Cell | Chromosome | Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) | Nucleus | Meiosis | Mitosis | Spindle | Transcription
