Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
DNA condensation refers to the process in which long strands of DNA tightly coil and compact themselves into more manageable structures called chromosomes during cell division (such as mitosis).
This term refers to the uncoiled and relaxed form of DNA present during interphase (non-dividing phase) when it's actively involved in gene expression.
Histones: These are proteins that help package and organize DNA by acting as spools around which the DNA coils itself.
Supercoiling: Supercoiling occurs when the coiled chromosome structure folds even further upon itself, creating additional levels of compaction.