QuestionMay 30, 2025

Explain how DNA, which is six feet long can be stored in the nucleus of a tiny human cell. square

Explain how DNA, which is six feet long can be stored in the nucleus of a tiny human cell. square
Explain how DNA, which is six feet long can be stored in
the nucleus of a tiny human cell.
square

Solution
4.4(310 votes)

Answer

DNA is stored in the nucleus by wrapping around histones, forming nucleosomes, and further compacting into chromatin through supercoiling and folding. Explanation 1. Understand DNA Structure DNA is a double helix composed of nucleotides, which can be tightly coiled and folded. 2. Role of Histones DNA wraps around histone proteins to form nucleosomes, reducing its length significantly. 3. Formation of Chromatin Nucleosomes further coil into chromatin fibers, compacting DNA even more. 4. Supercoiling and Folding Chromatin fibers undergo supercoiling and folding, allowing DNA to fit within the nucleus.

Explanation

1. Understand DNA Structure<br /> DNA is a double helix composed of nucleotides, which can be tightly coiled and folded.<br /><br />2. Role of Histones<br /> DNA wraps around histone proteins to form nucleosomes, reducing its length significantly.<br /><br />3. Formation of Chromatin<br /> Nucleosomes further coil into chromatin fibers, compacting DNA even more.<br /><br />4. Supercoiling and Folding<br /> Chromatin fibers undergo supercoiling and folding, allowing DNA to fit within the nucleus.
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