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The rDNA is one of the most fragile parts of the genome, due to its repetitive nature making it more difficult to maintain and fix if damaged.

If damage in the rDNA is not accurately repaired, it can lead to chromosomal rearrangements and cell death.

To test this idea, they engineered an artificial way to secure rDNA to the membrane surrounding the nucleus of yeast cells so they could control when it was anchored and when it was not.

In tests, the team found that large nucleoli had less stable rDNA than smaller ones.

It's as if the nucleolus becomes leaky, letting in molecules that can wreak havoc on the fragile rDNA.