Acetyltransferase
Acetyltransferase (pronounced as a-set-il-trans-fer-ase) is a type of enzyme that transfers an acetyl group from one molecule to another. The process is known as acetylation, which is an important mechanism in cellular functions and metabolism.
Etymology
The term "Acetyltransferase" is derived from the two words "acetyl," which refers to the acetyl group, and "transferase," a general term for enzymes that catalyze the transfer of a functional group from one molecule to another.
Function
Acetyltransferases play a crucial role in various biological processes. They are involved in the modification of proteins, which can alter their function, location, or interaction with other proteins. This process is known as protein acetylation. Acetyltransferases also participate in the metabolism of drugs and toxins in the body.
Types
There are several types of acetyltransferases, including:
- Histone acetyltransferases (HATs): These enzymes are involved in the acetylation of histones, which can affect gene expression.
- Aminoacyl tRNA acetyltransferases: These enzymes are involved in the process of protein synthesis.
- N-acetyltransferases (NATs): These enzymes are involved in the metabolism of drugs and toxins.
Related Terms
- Acetyl CoA: The molecule that donates the acetyl group in the acetylation process.
- Histone: A type of protein that can be acetylated by histone acetyltransferases.
- Gene expression: The process by which information from a gene is used to create a functional product, like a protein.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Acetyltransferase
- Wikipedia's article - Acetyltransferase
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