In
prokaryotes, the nucleoid (meaning nucleus-like and also known as the nuclear region, nuclear body or chromatin body) is an irregularly shaped region within the
cell where the
genetic material is localized. The nucleic acid is a circular, double-stranded piece of
DNA and multiple copies may exist. This method of genetic storage can be contrasted against that of the
eukaryotes, where DNA is packed into
chromatins and sequestered within a membrane-bound organelle called the
nucleus. The nucleoid can be clearly visualised on an
electron micrograph at high magnification, where although its appearance may differ, it is clearly visible against the
cytosol. Sometimes even strands of what is thought to be DNA are visible. By staining with the
Feulgen stain, which specifically stains DNA, the nucleoid can also be seen under a light microscope.
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The loosely tangled clump of DNA within the cytoplasm of a prokaryotic cell.