DNA is condensed by protein complexes known as nucleosomes, which contain histone proteins. DNA wraps around the histone proteins thereby condensing its length. The DNA is further condensed as the nucleosomes group to firm a more compact structure called a solenoid. Next, solenoids condense to form loops of dna as it eventually forms the highly condensed chromosome structure that can be observed in the nucleus through a microscope during metaphase, as a cell gets ready to divide.
