Why is Histone Acetylation Important for Gene Expression?
Histone acetylation is pivotal for gene expression because it directly influences the chromatin structure. When histones are acetylated, the chromatin adopts a more relaxed, open configuration known as euchromatin, which is conducive to transcriptional activation. Conversely, in the absence of acetylation, chromatin is more condensed (heterochromatin), which is transcriptionally repressive. Thus, the balance between histone acetylation and deacetylation, orchestrated by HATs and HDACs, respectively, is essential for regulating gene expression.
