DNA condensation

Under condensation is understood in genetics the degree of compaction of DNA. The closer the DNA is packaged into chromatin, the less transcriptional activity takes place. Highly condensed chromosomes are found for example in metaphase chromosomes or the heterochromatin.

A second meaning refers to the density of information in the DNA sequence. From a strong condensation is present when a lot of open reading frames next to each other tightly and thereby may overlap each other.

• Genetics