Definition

The process where certain materials in a cell, especially chromatin, break down or dissolve.

Example

During chromatolysis, the cell's chromatin disintegrates, affecting its function.

Conversation

I was reading about cell biology, and I came across the term chromatolysis.

Oh really? What does that mean exactly?

It's the process where the chromatin in a cell breaks down, especially in nerve cells.

That sounds interesting! I didn't know cells could do that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Chromatolysis → It is formed from "chroma" (from Greek "chroma", meaning color) and "lysis" (from Greek "lysis", meaning to break down or dissolve). The word describes the process of breaking down or dissolving color, often used in biological contexts to refer to the breakdown of cellular components that contain pigments.

Memory Tip

Think of 'color' ('chroma') being 'broken down' ('lysis') — that's what chromatolysis means.

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