State: Two functions of histones in DNA packaging.

Answer

To answer the question regarding the two functions of histones in DNA packaging, we can break down the information into clear steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Histones**: Histones are proteins that play a crucial role in the packaging of DNA within the cell nucleus. They help in organizing DNA into a compact structure.

2. **Function 1 - Formation of Octamere**:
- Histones form a structure known as an octamere, which consists of eight histone proteins.
- This octamere serves as a spool around which DNA winds, facilitating the primary packaging of DNA into a more compact form.
- This structure is essential for the formation of nucleosomes, the basic unit of DNA packaging.

3. **Function 2 - Neutralization of Charge**:
- Histones are basic proteins, meaning they have a positive charge due to their amino acid composition.
- In contrast, DNA is negatively charged because of its phosphate backbone.
- The positive charge of histones helps to neutralize the negative charge of DNA, allowing for tighter and more stable packaging of the DNA molecule.

### Summary of Functions:
1. Histones form octamers that assist in the primary packaging of DNA.
2. Histones neutralize the negative charge of DNA, facilitating its compact structure.