Gene Regulation
Posttranslational modifications of core histones, such as acetylation
and methylation, are pivotal to transcription regulation, DNA
replication and repair, gene silencing and regulation of cellular
differentiation and proliferation. These modifications, clustered on
the relatively highly charged N-terminal tails of histones, result in
remodeling of the chromatin structure. Conformational adjustment of
the chromatin controls accessibility to transcription complexes and
thereby directs promoter-specific events as well as overall control of
chromosomal activity. Key enzymes effecting these modifications are
histone acetyltransferase, histone deacetylase, and histone
methyltransferase. The proper balance of these enzymes are crucial to
appropriate cellular transcription, and malfunction of these modifying
enzymes hs been tied to human cancers and autoimmune disorders.
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