Within each eukaryotic cell, specialized structures called organelles work together to perform all life functions. One of the most important functions in the cell is making and processing proteins.

What jobs do organelles perform?

An organelle is a subcellular structure that has one or more specific jobs to perform in the cell, much like an organ does in the body. Among the more important cell organelles are the nuclei, which store genetic information; mitochondria, which produce chemical energy; and ribosomes, which assemble proteins.

What organelle is the boss?

The nucleus is an internal compartment that houses the cell's DNA (the boss). Most functions of a eukaryotic cell are controlled by the cell's nucleus.