Definition
Definition
Histone is a simple, basic protein (holoprotein) located inside the cell nucleus and bound to deoxyribonucleic acid in nucleosomes (fundamental units of chromatin that resemble a fine network of irregular coloration running throughout the nucleoplasm = liquid bathing the elements constituting the cell nucleus).
Generalities
Chromatin contains roughly equal amounts of DNA (genetic material) and histone (globular protein = variety of proteins).
This is the "framework" of the cell nucleus, which is visible under an optical microscope.
Symptoms
physiology
Histones play a repressive role in the transmission of the genetic message: they regulate genes (units made up of DNA located within chromosomes that preserve and transmit the hereditary characteristics of living beings).
For example, in a cell that is not undergoing division ( mitosis ), changes in the shape of histones submit different segments of DNA (genes) which are then likely to give orders (specifications) to make proteins.