H3K23ac

Histone modification

Overview

H3K23ac refers to the acetylation of the 23rd lysine residue on the histone H3 protein. Histones are proteins that package and order DNA into structural units called nucleosomes, which are the fundamental subunits of chromatin. The acetylation of histone proteins is a key post-translational modification that plays a crucial role in the regulation of gene expression.

Histone Acetylation

Lysine acetylation

Histone acetylation involves the addition of an acetyl group to the lysine residues of histone proteins. This process is catalyzed by enzymes known as histone acetyltransferases (HATs). Acetylation neutralizes the positive charge on lysine residues, reducing the affinity between histones and DNA. This results in a more relaxed chromatin structure, facilitating access for transcription factors and other proteins involved in transcription.

Role of H3K23ac

H3K23ac is one of several acetylation marks on histone H3 that are associated with active transcription. The presence of H3K23ac is often found in regions of the genome that are actively being transcribed. It is thought to play a role in the regulation of gene expression by influencing chromatin structure and recruiting transcriptional machinery.

Biological Significance

The acetylation of H3K23 is involved in various cellular processes, including cell cycle regulation, DNA repair, and development. Aberrant acetylation patterns, including those involving H3K23ac, have been implicated in several diseases, including cancer.

Mechanism of Action

The acetylation of H3K23 is mediated by specific histone acetyltransferases. Once acetylated, H3K23ac can serve as a binding site for bromodomain-containing proteins, which are involved in the recruitment of transcriptional coactivators and the assembly of the transcriptional machinery.

Research and Clinical Implications

Research into H3K23ac and other histone modifications is ongoing, with the aim of understanding their roles in normal cellular function and disease. The modulation of histone acetylation, including H3K23ac, is being explored as a potential therapeutic strategy in the treatment of cancer and other diseases.

Related Pages

• Histone modification
• Chromatin
• Gene expression
• Epigenetics
• Histone acetyltransferase