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HATs

Meaning

HATs, an acronym for Histone Acetyltransferases, are a family of enzymes that catalyze the transfer of an acetyl group from acetyl-CoA to lysine residues on histone proteins. This post-translational modification is a crucial epigenetic mark that fundamentally influences chromatin structure. Acetylation typically neutralizes the positive charge of the histone tail, leading to a relaxed, open chromatin configuration, which makes the underlying DNA accessible for transcription. This open state is often associated with gene activation and enhanced hormonal signaling responsiveness.