Which organelle is known as the brain of the cell and contains DNA?

Which organelle is known as the brain of the cell and contains DNA?

• A. Nucleus
• B. Mitochondria
• C. Ribosomes
• D. Golgi apparatus

Answer: (A)

The nucleus acts as the control center of the cell because it houses DNA, the instruction manual for making proteins and directing cellular activities. This link to directing gene expression is why it’s described as the brain of the cell. DNA is organized into chromosomes inside the nucleus, protected by the nuclear envelope. Other organelles perform essential roles—mitochondria generate energy, ribosomes build proteins, and the Golgi processes and ships materials—but they do not store the cell’s main genetic material. (Mitochondria do have a small amount of DNA, but the vast majority is in the nucleus.)

The nucleus acts as the control center of the cell because it houses DNA, the instruction manual for making proteins and directing cellular activities. This link to directing gene expression is why it’s described as the brain of the cell. DNA is organized into chromosomes inside the nucleus, protected by the nuclear envelope. Other organelles perform essential roles—mitochondria generate energy, ribosomes build proteins, and the Golgi processes and ships materials—but they do not store the cell’s main genetic material. (Mitochondria do have a small amount of DNA, but the vast majority is in the nucleus.)