Home >  Term: histone
histone

1) Small chromosomal proteins (approx 12-20 kD) possessing an open, unfolded structure and attached to the DNA in cell nuclei by ionic linkages. Classification into the various types (designated histone I, histone II, etc. ) is based on the relative amounts of arginine and lysine in each.

2) A histone is a protein that provides structural support to a chromosome. In order for very long DNA molecules to fit into the cell nucleus, they wrap around complexes of histone proteins, giving the chromosome a more compact shape. Some variants of histones are associated with the regulation of gene expression.

0 0

Creator

  • Max Bryant
  •  (Silver) 765 points
  • 100% positive feedback
© 2024 CSOFT International, Ltd.