• Cell nucleus – eukaryotes only - A cell's information center, the cell nucleus is the most

conspicuous organelle found in a eukaryotic cell. It houses the cell's chromosomes, and

is the place where almost all DNA replication and RNA synthesis (transcription) occur.

The nucleus is spherical and separated from the cytoplasm by a double membrane

called the nuclear envelope. The nuclear envelope isolates and protects a cell's DNA

from various molecules that could accidentally damage its structure or interfere with its

processing. During processing, DNA is transcribed, or copied into a special RNA, called

messenger RNA (mRNA). This mRNA is then transported out of the nucleus, where it is

translated into a specific protein molecule. The nucleolus is a specialized region within

the nucleus where ribosome subunits are assembled. In prokaryotes, DNA processing

takes place in the cytoplasm.

Liver

The liver is located primarily in the right side of the body, just beneath the

diaphragm. It is the largest gland in the body. On the surface, the liver is divided

into two major lobes and two smaller lobes. The cells of liver are called

hepatocytes.

The liver receives blood from two sources. Freshly oxygenated blood is brought to

the liver by the common hepatic artery, a branch of the celiac trunk from the

abdominal aorta. Blood that is rich in nutrients from the digestive tract is carried to

the liver by the hepatic portal vein.