Chromatin

Presented By-

Name: Ayan Mukherjee

Roll: 11001422006

Stream: Textile Technology

Semester: 3rd

Continuous Assessment: 1

Government College of
Engineering and Textile
Technology, Serampore
 What is Chromatin?
Chromatin is a complex of nucleic acids (e.g. DNA or RNA) and proteins (e.g. histones). It was identified in
1882. Initially, it was thought of as just a colored substance in a nucleus, however, later it was found that chromatin is
characterized as proteins attached to DNA, and DNA was identified as the carrier of genetic information (Ma,
Kanakousaki, and Buttitta 2015). Thus, we can define chromatin as a substance consisting of DNA and associated
proteins (known as histones).

Location of Chromatin
In eukaryotic cells, chromatin is found within the nucleus.

Structure of Chromatin
The structure of chromatin is governed by a number of factors. The complete structure mainly depends on the phases of
the cell cycle. They undergo various structural changes during cell division. The structure of chromosomes is clearly
visible under a light microscope during metaphase, which changes their shape while the DNA is duplicated and divided
into two cells.
There are 3 stages in the chromatin group:

1. Nucleosomes are formed by the wrapping of DNA around the histone proteins

2. Multiple histones wrap into a 30 nm fibre consisting of the nucleosome.

3. Higher-level DNA packaging of the 30 nm fibre into the metaphase chromosome

Chromatin in Mitosis
Mitosis is the process of cell division in which the resulting two cells (daughter cells) have the same type and number
of chromosomes as the parent nucleus. Chromatin has an important function during the four steps of mitosis.

• Prophase: During this phase, the chromatin fibres wrap around to form the chromosomes. The replicated chromosome
comprises two chromatids combined at the centromere.

• Metaphase: During this phase, chromatin extremely condenses

• Anaphase: During this phase, the spindle microtubules pull the two identical chromosomes to the end of the cells and
separates them.

• Telophase: In this phase, the new chromosomes are separated into their own nucleus. At this point, chromatin fibres
become less condensed by uncoiling. Two identical cells are produced with the same number of chromosomes.

Euchromatin vs Heterochromatin
There are two forms of chromatin: (1) euchromatin and (2) heterochromatin

Euchromatin are less condensed and can be heterochromatin is highly condensed and cannot
transcribed. typically be transcribed. The heterochromatin is
further classified as constitutive heterochromatin
and facultative heterochromatin.
 Functions of Chromatin
1. DNA Packaging: Chromatin efficiently compacts and packages the long DNA molecules into a compact and organized
structure. By wrapping around histone proteins, DNA forms nucleosomes, which enable the efficient storage of genetic
material within the cell's nucleus.

2. Regulation of Gene Expression: Chromatin plays a crucial role in controlling gene expression. It can modify the
accessibility of genes to transcriptional machinery, allowing certain genes to be turned on or off as needed. Chemical
modifications to the histone proteins or DNA, such as acetylation, methylation, and phosphorylation, influence the
degree of chromatin condensation and, consequently, gene expression.

3. DNA Replication: During DNA replication, the chromatin structure must be appropriately modified and temporarily
loosened to allow the replication machinery access to the DNA template. After replication, the chromatin is
reassembled to its original state, ensuring accurate transmission of genetic information to daughter cells.

4. DNA Repair: When DNA is damaged due to various factors such as radiation, chemicals, or replication errors,
chromatin plays a role in facilitating DNA repair processes. Certain chromatin remodelling complexes are involved in
exposing damaged DNA regions to repair machinery.

5. Cell Differentiation and Development: Chromatin dynamics are critical during cell differentiation and development.
The regulation of gene expression patterns through chromatin modifications allows cells to specialize and acquire
distinct functions during embryonic development and tissue formation.

6. Epigenetic Inheritance: Chromatin modifications can be passed on from one generation of cells to the next without
altering the DNA sequence. These epigenetic changes can influence gene expression patterns in daughter cells,
potentially affecting cell fate and function.

7. Chromosome Segregation: During cell division, chromatin compaction and organization ensure the accurate
segregation of chromosomes into daughter cells. Proper chromatin structure is vital to maintain chromosome integrity
and prevent genetic abnormalities.

8. Transcriptional Memory: Chromatin can retain information about past gene expression states, allowing cells to
respond more efficiently to subsequent stimuli. This phenomenon is known as transcriptional memory and plays a role
in adaptive responses to environmental changes.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, chromatin is a vital component of eukaryotic cells that plays a central role in packaging and regulating
the genetic material. Through its intricate structure and dynamic modifications, chromatin governs gene expression,
cell differentiation, and genome stability. Understanding chromatin's functions is crucial for unraveling the
complexities of cellular processes and has significant implications for fields such as genetics, epigenetics, and disease
research. As we continue to explore the fascinating world of chromatin, we gain deeper insights into the fundamental
mechanisms that underlie life and its diversity.
References:

1. Chromatin - Definition and Examples - Biology Online Dictionary