Histones are proteins found in the cell nucleus that play a crucial role in organizing and packaging DNA. They help form a structure called nucleosomes, where DNA wraps around histones, allowing it to fit within the cell. This packaging is essential for DNA to be efficiently managed during processes like cell division and gene expression. There are several types of histones, including H1, H2A, H2B, H3, and H4. Each type contributes to the overall structure and function of chromatin, the material that makes up chromosomes. By modifying histones, cells can regulate access to DNA, influencing which genes are turned on or off.