What is the role of the nucleolus?

The nucleolus is primarily responsible for the production of ribosomes. It is a small, dense structure found within the nucleus of eukaryotic cells. The nucleolus plays a crucial role in ribosome biogenesis, which involves the synthesis of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and the assembly of ribosomal subunits. These ribosomal subunits are then transported out to the cytoplasm, where they combine to form functional ribosomes that are essential for protein synthesis.

The other options pertain to different cellular functions that are carried out by various organelles or components of the cell. For example, DNA synthesis primarily occurs in the nucleus outside the nucleolus, while cell division is regulated by structures like the spindle apparatus during mitosis and meiosis. Material transport within the cell is mainly managed by the endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and vesicles. Thus, the function of the nucleolus is distinctly focused on ribosome production, highlighting its essential role in protein synthesis in the cell.