protein deacetylation

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The removal of an acetyl group from a protein amino acid. An acetyl group is CH3CO-, derived from acetic [ethanoic] acid. [GOC:ai]

Protein deacetylation is a crucial biological process that removes acetyl groups (CH3CO) from lysine residues within proteins. This process is catalyzed by enzymes called deacetylases, which play a vital role in regulating a wide range of cellular functions, including gene expression, cell signaling, and metabolism. Deacetylation often reverses the effects of acetylation, which typically adds an acetyl group to a lysine residue.

The process begins with a deacetylase enzyme binding to the acetylated lysine residue on the target protein. The enzyme's active site contains a catalytic triad of amino acids that facilitate the removal of the acetyl group. The deacetylase utilizes a water molecule to hydrolyze the amide bond between the acetyl group and the lysine residue, releasing acetate and the deacetylated protein.

Deacetylation is an important regulatory mechanism in various biological pathways. For example, in gene expression, deacetylation of histones, which are proteins that package DNA, can repress gene transcription. Deacetylation of histones can also contribute to chromatin compaction, further limiting gene expression. In contrast, deacetylation of transcription factors can activate gene transcription by promoting their binding to DNA.

Deacetylation also plays a role in cell signaling. Deacetylation of signaling proteins can modulate their activity, altering downstream signaling pathways. For instance, deacetylation of the tumor suppressor protein p53 can enhance its stability and activity, leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis.

Metabolic processes are also influenced by deacetylation. Deacetylation of metabolic enzymes can regulate their activity and substrate specificity. For example, deacetylation of acetyl-CoA carboxylase, an enzyme involved in fatty acid synthesis, inhibits its activity.

Overall, protein deacetylation is a fundamental biological process that plays a critical role in regulating a vast array of cellular functions. It is involved in gene expression, cell signaling, and metabolism, contributing to the complex and dynamic nature of cellular processes.'
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Proteins (12)

Compounds (178)