Definition(s)
- The material of chromosomes. It is a complex of DNA; histones; and nonhistone proteins (chromosomal proteins, non-histone) found within the nucleus of a cell.
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Definition from: MeSH via Unified Medical Language System
at the National Library of Medicine
- The genetic material of the nucleus, consisting of deoxyribonucleoprotein, which occurs in two forms during the phase between mitotic divisions: 1) as heterochromatin, seen as condensed, readily stainable clumps; 2) as euchromatin, dispersed lightly staining or nonstaining material. During mitotic division the chromatin condenses into chromosomes.
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Definition from: NCI Thesaurus via Unified Medical Language System at the National Library of Medicine
- Chromatin is a substance within a chromosome consisting of DNA and protein. The DNA carries the cell's genetic instructions. The major proteins in chromatin are histones, which help package the DNA in a compact form that fits in the cell nucleus. Changes in chromatin structure are associated with DNA replication and gene expression.
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Definition from: Talking Glossary of Genetic Terms from the National Human Genome Research Institute
See also Understanding Medical Terminology.
