DNA condensation
DNA Condensation
DNA condensation refers to the process by which a DNA molecule is compacted into a tightly coiled structure. This process is essential for the packaging of DNA into the nucleus of a cell and for the segregation of chromosomes during cell division.
Pronunciation
- IPA: /diː.eɪ.nə kɒndɛnˈseɪʃən/
Etymology
The term "DNA condensation" is derived from the English words "deoxyribonucleic acid" (DNA) and "condensation". "Deoxyribonucleic acid" is a compound word formed from the Greek words "deoxy" (lacking oxygen), "ribo" (a type of sugar), and "nucleic" (relating to the nucleus). "Condensation" comes from the Latin "condensare", which means "to make dense".
Process
DNA condensation involves the coiling and folding of the DNA molecule, which is facilitated by proteins known as histones. The DNA wraps around these histones, forming a structure known as a nucleosome. Further compaction results in the formation of a chromatin fiber, which can be further condensed into a chromosome during cell division.
Related Terms
- Histone: A type of protein that facilitates the condensation of DNA.
- Nucleosome: The basic unit of DNA packaging, consisting of a segment of DNA wound around a core of histone proteins.
- Chromatin: The material of which chromosomes are composed. It consists of protein, RNA, and DNA.
- Chromosome: A thread-like structure of nucleic acids and protein found in the nucleus of most living cells, carrying genetic information in the form of genes.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on DNA condensation
- Wikipedia's article - DNA condensation
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