Question

Write a short note on Acetylation.

Hint:

Histone acetylation in cells plays a vital role in turning genes “on” or “off” by altering chromatin structure.

Answer 1

Step 1: Definition.
Acetylation is the process of introducing an acetyl functional group (\(-COCH_3\)) into a molecule. It usually involves the replacement of a hydrogen atom with an acetyl group.
Step 2: Types of Acetylation.
1.
Chemical Acetylation: Reaction of compounds with acetic anhydride or acetyl chloride. Example: Conversion of salicylic acid to acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin).
2.
Biological Acetylation: In living organisms, enzymes like acetyltransferases transfer acetyl groups, such as acetylation of histone proteins that regulate gene expression.
Conclusion:
Acetylation is important both in organic synthesis (e.g., formation of aspirin) and in biological systems (e.g., regulation of gene activity).