HAT1

HAT1 (Histone Acetyltransferase 1) is a gene that encodes a type of enzyme known as a histone acetyltransferase. This enzyme plays a crucial role in the regulation of gene expression by modifying chromatin structure.

Function

HAT1 is primarily involved in the acetylation of histone proteins, specifically histone H4. Acetylation is a process that adds an acetyl group to a molecule, altering its properties. In the case of histones, acetylation generally leads to a more relaxed chromatin structure, allowing for increased gene expression.

HAT1 is also involved in DNA repair, cell cycle progression, and apoptosis, or programmed cell death. It is thought to play a role in the development and progression of certain types of cancer, although more research is needed to fully understand this relationship.

Structure

The HAT1 gene is located on the short (p) arm of chromosome 2 at position 31. The encoded protein is 348 amino acids in length.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the HAT1 gene have been associated with a variety of diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. For example, overexpression of HAT1 has been observed in breast cancer and colorectal cancer, suggesting that it may play a role in the development of these diseases.

See also

• Histone acetyltransferase
• Histone modification
• Epigenetics