What is the difference between euchromatin and heterochromatin?

Question: Explain the main structural, functional, and regulatory differences between euchromatin and heterochromatin. Answer: Euchromatin is less condensed and contains active genes, allowing for gene transcription and expression, while heterochromatin is highly condensed, containing inactive genes and non-coding DNA regions. Euchromatin is associated with active gene transcription and its presence is crucial during cell division and differentiation. Heterochromatin, however, is not involved in gene expression and serves as a structural component for chromosome stability. Regulation of gene expression can occur through the transition between euchromatin and heterochromatin, with certain genes being silenced or activated in response to specific conditions.