Discovery of a DNA-Ring Organelle in Mammalian Cells
Cell biologists at ETH Zurich have discovered a new compartment in mammalian cells called the exclusome, which is made up of DNA rings known as plasmids. This compartment, located in the cell plasma, is distinct from the cell nucleus where most DNA is typically found. The researchers believe that the exclusome may play a role in cellular immunological memory and could potentially trigger autoimmune responses. They also suggest that the exclusome may be a remnant of early evolution when eukaryotic cells emerged. Further research is needed to understand the functions and characteristics of this newly discovered organelle.