histone H3 acetyltransferase activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Catalysis of the reaction: acetyl-CoA + histone H3 = CoA + acetyl-histone H3. [EC:2.3.1.48]

Histone H3 acetyltransferase activity is a molecular function that refers to the ability of an enzyme to catalyze the transfer of an acetyl group from acetyl coenzyme A (acetyl-CoA) to the ε-amino group of lysine residues on histone H3. This process is known as histone acetylation. Histone H3 is a core histone protein that forms the nucleosome, the basic unit of chromatin structure. Histone acetylation is a crucial epigenetic modification that plays a vital role in regulating gene expression. Acetylation of lysine residues on histone H3 typically results in a more relaxed chromatin structure, making DNA more accessible to transcription factors and promoting gene expression. This is because acetyl groups are negatively charged, neutralizing the positive charge of lysine residues and weakening the interaction between histones and DNA. Conversely, deacetylation of histone H3 can lead to a more condensed chromatin structure, hindering gene expression. Histone H3 acetyltransferases (HATs) are a family of enzymes that catalyze histone acetylation. These enzymes are often recruited to specific regions of the genome by transcription factors or other regulatory proteins, targeting specific lysine residues on histone H3 for acetylation. HATs are involved in a wide range of biological processes, including cell growth, differentiation, and development. Dysregulation of HAT activity has been implicated in various diseases, including cancer and neurodevelopmental disorders. Therefore, histone H3 acetyltransferases and their associated activity play a fundamental role in regulating gene expression and cellular processes, contributing to the complexity and dynamism of the eukaryotic genome.'
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Proteins (3)

Compounds (29)