Chromatin
Definition
Chromatin is the organised association of DNA with proteins and other components within chromosomes. Its packaging influences access to genetic information and can change during cellular processes, while forensic DNA methods examine selected genetic targets rather than chromatin appearance alone.
Related terms
- Heteroplasmy
- The co-existence of two or more mitochondrial DNA sequence variants within a single individual, arising from somatic mutation or incomplete segregation. Length...
- Keratinisation
- Differentiation that produces durable keratin-rich material while altering cellular structures. Hair formation, retention and shedding involve different structures and processes. Document orientation...
- Mitochondrial DNA
- DNA associated with mitochondria, with inheritance and discrimination different from standard nuclear STR profiles. Shortened STR designs can improve access to some...
- Nucleus
- A nucleus is a membrane-bound cellular compartment containing nuclear chromosomes in a typical nucleated eukaryotic cell. Its presence can guide biological examination,...
Explained in
- Cell Structure and Organelles for Forensic ScientistsDNA with associated proteins, including histones.