Chromatin and Chromosome Difference: Introduction Typically, most people are only aware of DNA as the molecule that carries genetic information. But, is DNA the only one? A biology student, such question should always float around in your mind. Why? to Because they are tricky and asked in NEET often. So, what are these other carriers of genetic information? They are- chromatin and chromosomes.
Do you know anything about the two? Not anymore. If so, then continue reading the difference between chromatin and chromosome, in the article below. Not only that, but you can get some important terms associated with chromatin and chromosomes as well. So, read and learn for yourself!
What is Chromatin and Chromosome?
To clarify the difference between chromatin and chromosomes, it’s important to first explain what each one is. Addressing this issue, you’ll find a brief and concise definition for each- chromatin and chromosome, in the below write-up:
Chromatin:
It is the combination of nucleic acids (RNA, DNA) and proteins. Chromatin is an uncondensed, dynamic DNA form that occurs in the nucleus. The processes that chromatin aids in are: DNA packaging, genome stability, and regulation of gene expression. If the structure of chromatin is altered, one can control the activity of the genes. The factors that influence the modification of the structure of chromatin include epigenetic modifications, etc.
Chromosome:
They are located within the nucleus of the cell. Chromosomes consist of condensed DNA and proteins in a very compact form. The genetic information that they carry is encoded as genes. They play important roles such as DNA replication, cell division, and heredity. Changes in the structure of the chromosome cause genetic disorders. Sometimes the overall function of the cell also gets disturbed.
Difference Between Chromatin and Chromosome
You will not get confused between chromosomes and chromatin. But here is the good news for you. What? You may grasp all the differences of chromatin and chromosome from the table given below:
| No. |
Category |
Chromatin |
Chromosome |
| 1 | Structure | Uncondensed, disorganized DNA and protein | Condensed, organized DNA structure |
| 2 | Composition | DNA, histones, non-histone protein | DNA and protein (histones) |
| 3 | Function | Facilitate DNA packaging and gene regulation | Carries genetic information |
| 4 | Size | Not visible under and microscope | Visible under and microscope |
| 5 | Occurrence | Presents throughout the cell cycle | Presents during cell division |
| 6 | Number | Multiples chromatin strands per cell | Humans have 46 chromosomes |
| 7 | Position | Spreads throughout the nucleus | Located the nucleus |
| 8 | Replication | Replication can occurs independently | Replicate during cells division |
| 9 | Gene Expression | Transcription depend on chromatin structure | Can be actively transcribed |
| 10 | Stability | Dynamic and flexible structure | Stable structure |
| 11 | Packaging | Loosely is packed and accessible | Tightly coiled and compacted |
| 12 | Heterogeneity | Chromatin can vary in structure and
compositions within the nucleus |
Different chromosomes have distinct sizes and
gene contents |
| 13 | Accessibility | More accessibility for transcriptions and
regulation |
Specific region may be inaccessible or
silenced |
| 14 | Formation | Formed by DNA wrapping around histone | Formed during cell divisions |
| 15 | Regulation | Gene regulation is influenced by the
chromatin states |
Can be regulated independently |
| 16 | Reparability | DNA repair mechanisms acts on chromatin | Can undergo repair process |
| 17 | Visualization | Requires special techniques for visualizations | Stained with dyes or using techniques likes
karyotyping |
| 18 | Influence | Altered chromatin structure can impact gene
expression and cellular functions |
Chromosomal abnormalities can leads to
genetic disorders |
Important Terms: Characteristics of Chromatin and Chromosome
When discussing genetic material such as chromatin and chromosomes, many different terms come into play. Some key concepts are explained below:
- Chromatin Remodeling: Not an inert structure, chromatin is-remodeled for proper regulation of gene expression. Chromatin remodeling is dynamic, both for gene expression as well as cellular differentiation.
- Chromosome Territories: The spatial domain that each chromosome occupies inside the nucleus are termed chromosome territories. It influences both- chromosomal interactions and the patterns of gene expression.
- Chromosomal Imprinting: In some genes, the expression of someone’s inheritance depends on whether the genes were from the father or mother. This epigenetic phenomenon is termed imprinting. It is responsible for many diseases and developmental disorders.
- Chromosome Banding Patterns: The particular patterns that scientists stain and go on to analyze in identifying genetic abnormalities are the chromosomal banding patterns.
Conclusion
The above article discusses all the differences between chromatin and chromosomes. For everything you need to know, you get it there, anything from gene expression, composition, replication, to replication, occurrence, etc. Not only their differences are explained but through some important terms, the article talks about characteristics of both chromatin and chromosome. Therefore, once you have read the above article, you will face no difficulty if you want to explain some concepts on chromosome and chromatin.
