Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

3. Energy & Cell Processes

Organization of DNA in the Cell

Anatomy & Physiology

3. Energy & Cell Processes

Organization of DNA in the Cell

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Problem 1

Textbook Question

What is chromatin?a. the histone-containing protein core of the nucleosomeb. the 30-nm fiberc. the complex of DNA and proteins found in the nucleusd. the histone and non-histone proteins in eukaryotic nuclei

Verified step by step guidance

Identify what chromatin is composed of: Chromatin is a complex material found in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells, consisting of DNA and proteins.

Understand the role of DNA and proteins in chromatin: DNA provides the genetic information, while proteins, including histones and non-histone proteins, help in packaging the DNA into a compact, organized structure.

Recognize the components mentioned in each option: Option a mentions only the histone-containing protein core, option b refers to a specific structural form of chromatin, and option d mentions both histone and non-histone proteins but not DNA.

Compare the definitions in the options with the composition of chromatin: Chromatin is not just the protein core or a specific fiber but a complex of both DNA and proteins.

Select the option that correctly encompasses all components of chromatin: The correct option should mention both DNA and the associated proteins.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Chromatin Structure

Chromatin is a complex of DNA and proteins found in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells. It plays a crucial role in packaging DNA into a more compact, dense shape, allowing for efficient storage and regulation of gene expression. The primary proteins involved are histones, which help organize the DNA into structural units called nucleosomes.

Nucleosome

A nucleosome is the fundamental unit of chromatin, consisting of a segment of DNA wound around a core of histone proteins. This structure resembles 'beads on a string' and is essential for DNA compaction, allowing the long DNA molecules to fit within the cell nucleus while also playing a role in gene regulation.

30-nm Fiber

The 30-nm fiber is a higher-order structure of chromatin formed by the coiling and folding of nucleosomes. This level of organization is crucial for further compacting DNA and is involved in the regulation of gene accessibility, influencing how genes are expressed in different cell types.