Acetylated histones

Acetylated histones are histone proteins—components of our DNA packaging system—that have been modified by adding acetyl groups. This chemical change reduces the positive charge on histones, decreasing their attraction to negatively charged DNA. As a result, the DNA becomes more relaxed, allowing genes to be more easily accessed and activated. Acetylation of histones plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression, influencing processes like cell growth, development, and response to the environment. Overall, it acts as a molecular switch that helps control when and how genes are turned on or off.