The Role of HATs and HDACs in Gene Regulation

Very Hard Biology Molecular Biology

Within the realm of molecular biology, the regulation of gene expression is critical for cellular function and adaptation. One way genes are regulated is through epigenetic modifications, which can influence the accessibility of chromatin and subsequently affect transcription. Among various enzymes, histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs) play pivotal roles in modulating chromatin structure.

Consider the following scenario: A specific gene associated with a metabolic pathway is found to be underexpressed in a certain type of cancer. Researchers investigate the role of HATs and HDACs in this context. They discover that inhibition of HDACs leads to increased expression of the gene in question. Based on this information and your understanding of molecular mechanisms, which of the following statements best describes the impact of HATs and HDACs on gene expression?

HATs and HDACs both promote gene expression by enhancing transcription factor binding.

HATs promote gene expression through histone acetylation, while HDACs repress gene expression by deacetylation.

HDACs promote gene expression by creating a more open chromatin structure, whereas HATs repress gene expression.

HATs and HDACs work together to inhibit gene expression regardless of the chromatin state.

Hint

Submitted10.0K

Correct7.0K

% Correct70%