Where is DNA stored within a cell?

DNA is primarily stored in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells, which serves as the cell's control center. The nucleus is a membrane-bound organelle that protects the genetic material and regulates gene expression and DNA replication. In this compartmentalization, the DNA can undergo processes such as transcription, where the genetic information is copied into messenger RNA (mRNA) before being translated into proteins.

While mitochondria also contain a small amount of DNA, this particular DNA is distinct and is involved in the production of some proteins necessary for mitochondrial function, rather than serving as the main storage location for genetic information for the entire cell. Ribosomes are involved in protein synthesis and do not contain DNA. The cytoplasm is the fluid part of the cell where various cellular processes occur, but it does not house DNA. Thus, the nucleus is indeed the correct and predominant site for DNA storage in the cell.