DNA and Histones.In the nucleus of each CELL, the DNA molecule is packaged into thread-like structures called chromosomes.Each chromosome is made up of DNA which remains tightly coiled AROUND proteins called histones. DNA: DNA is the basic building block of the genetic material found in all living organisms. Chromosome:A very long chain of DNA forms a chromosome.Genes:In chromosomes, there are areas called genes that are made of specific proteins, carrying specific genetic information. All the different chromosomes of an organism MAKE up that organism's genome structure.Thus DNA MAKES up genes, genes make up chromosomes, and chromosomes make up a genome.