DNA condensation refers to the process of compacting
DNA molecules
in vitro or
in vivo. Mechanistic details of DNA packing are essential for its functioning in the process of
gene regulation in living systems. Condensed DNA often has surprising properties, which one would not predict from classical concepts of dilute solutions. Therefore DNA condensation
in vitro serves as a
model system for many processes of
physics,
biochemistry and
biology. In addition, DNA condensation has many potential applications in
medicine and
biotechnology.