1. the dissolution or breaking down of the chromatin (stainable material) in the nucleus of a cell, typically occurring during cell death or degeneration.
Usage: technical; biology; pathology

Examples

• Chromatolysis is observed in neurons that have been damaged or are undergoing apoptosis.
• Under the microscope, chromatolysis appears as a fading or disappearance of the cell nucleus's staining properties.
• The pathologist noted signs of chromatolysis in the tissue samples from the diseased organ.
• Chromatolysis can be triggered by severe stress, toxins, or lack of oxygen in cells.