Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

pyknotic

Adjective

/pɪkˈnɒtɪk/

Definition

Characterized by the condensation of the chromatin in the nucleus of a cell, typically referring to a state where the chromatin is tightly packed.

Examples

The pyknotic nuclei observed in the tissue sample indicated signs of cellular degeneration.
During apoptosis, cells often exhibit pyknotic changes as the chromatin condenses.
Under the microscope, the pyknotic cells appeared distinct due to their dense nucleo-cytoplasmic ratio.

Meaning

Pyknotic describes a condition in cells when the chromatin becomes compact and dense, often indicating a specific phase in cell death or degeneration.