The "Resting" Nucleus

Abstract

The term resting nucleus as applied to the interkinetic nucleus is accurate only in a descriptive morphological sense. The term metabolic nucleus is also too limited for accuracy. Experimental evidence is quoted to show that cell structures, cell form, and specialized functions develop during the interkinetic phase, are lost during mitosis, and reappear in the daughter nuclei. It is therefore suggested that the term resting nucleus be discarded and energic nucleus be used. This latter term implies the existence of activity and also affords a suitable contrast to kinetic nucleus.