The reversible acetylation of lysine residues on histone proteins
has emerged as a major factor in the regulation of transcription in
eukaryotes. All core histone proteins are acetylated and unique
functional chromosomal domains are characterized by specific
patterns of acetylation within their histone proteins. Functional
correlations have been established between the level of acetylation
of individual genes and their transcriptional activity. These
complex signals are currently being elucidated in the context of
the 'histone code hypothesis'. This model posits that distinct
acetylation patterns in histones, along with other
post-translational modifications, serve as specific signals
recognized by the nuclear transcriptional machinery.
Histone acetylation is under the control of competing histone
acetyltransferases (HATs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs). Both
enzyme families contain many members: at least 18 distinct human
HDACs have been identified. As well as regulating transcription,
these proteins play critical roles in cell cycle control and
differentiation. Acetylation is not restricted to histone proteins;
a growing number of important biological functions appear to be
regulated via acetylation. These include DNA binding (p53),
nuclear-cytoplasmic shuttling (NF-kB) and coactivator recruitment
(HIV Tat protein).
This novel research opens up new and exciting possibilities for
drug design. Inhibitors have been developed that specifically
target either HDACs or HATs. HDAC inhibitors exhibit selective
toxicity towards tumour cells and are being developed as potential
anticancer drugs. This book describes current knowledge of
acetylation and features extensive discussionsamongst the world's
experts in this field, with an emphasis on major unanswered
questions.
General
Is the information for this product incomplete, wrong or inappropriate?
Let us know about it.
Does this product have an incorrect or missing image?
Send us a new image.
Is this product missing categories?
Add more categories.
Review This Product
No reviews yet - be the first to create one!
Welcome to Loot.co.za!
Sign in / Register |Wishlists & Gift Vouchers |Help | Advanced search
