# Scientists uncover how nucleolus sub-compartments facilitate ribosome assembly Researchers discover new subcompartments that complete the final steps of ribosome production. - **Source:** [Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories](https://brifing.si/source/8b0f98da-d179-4c93-871f-7ac460bf9c61) - **Published:** 2026-07-15 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/41d022f4-4560-4424-93cf-41fb4a1ecaab ## Function of the Nucleolus The nucleolus is a liquid-like organelle where cellular protein factories called ribosomes are assembled. While its three main compartments were known, how they orchestrate ribosome production remained unclear. This new study reveals critical details about this fundamental biological process. ## Newly Discovered Subcompartments Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital identified novel subcompartments containing ribosome components and assembly proteins. These microstructures spontaneously form to finalize ribosome assembly, playing a pivotal role in the production process. ## Liquid-like Dynamics The research shows these subcompartments exhibit liquid-like properties. This dynamic organization enables efficient arrangement of ribosomal components, revealing a new level of cellular organization in biology. ## Ribosome Assembly Mechanism The study uncovers previously unknown mechanical details of ribosome assembly. Specialized subcompartments provide spaces for assembling and quality-checking different ribosomal parts, determining the cell's protein production capacity. ## Cancer Connection Increased ribosome production is linked to certain cancers. These findings may help understand molecular mechanisms underlying such diseases. Researchers emphasize the potential implications for therapeutic development. ## Scientific Significance This research deepens our understanding of fundamental cellular processes. Elucidating ribosome production mechanisms may open new research avenues in both basic science and medicine. The findings were published in Molecular Cell. ## Sources covering this story - https://phys.org/news/2026-07-scientists-nucleolus-compartments-ribosome.html — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._