ABSTRACT
Since histones are known to quantitatively restrict DNA transcription in vitro and, most likely, in vivo, many experiments have been reported in the literature concerning the specificity of interactions between DNA and basic proteins. The manner in which the DNA and histone fractions were brought together in vitro apparently affected the stability properties of the resulting complexes. The functional form of the chromosomal DNA in eukaryotes is associated with other macromolecules such as histones, nonhistone proteins, lipids or lipoproteins, RNA, etc. The composition of typical chromatin consists of almost equal proportions of DNA and histones and smaller amounts of nonhistone proteins and RNA. Since DNA at similar concentrations does not form cross-linked gels, the formation of gels by isolated chromatin in water must be due to its protein content. During the cell cycle of eukaryotic cells, the chromatin nucleoprotein assumes various states of condensation.
