Pyknosis

Pyknosis is a process that occurs in the nucleus of a cell during cell death. It is characterized by chromatin condensation, which is often followed by karyorrhexis and karyolysis.

Overview

Pyknosis, or pyknotic degeneration, is the irreversible condensation of chromatin in the nucleus of a cell undergoing programmed cell death, or apoptosis. It is followed by karyorrhexis, or fragmentation of the nucleus, and is often accompanied by shrinkage and increased basophilia.

Process

During pyknosis, the chromatin undergoes condensation into a solid, shrunken mass. This is due to the action of condensins, a group of proteins involved in chromosome condensation. The DNA is also cleaved into large fragments. This process is often followed by karyorrhexis, where the condensed chromatin is fragmented.

Significance

Pyknosis is a significant indicator of apoptosis, and can be used to identify cells undergoing programmed cell death. It is also a common feature in cells affected by ischemia or hypoxia.

See also

• Apoptosis
• Karyorrhexis
• Karyolysis
• Necrosis

Pyknosis Resources
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