The HDAC4 gene provides instructions for making an enzyme called histone deacetylase 4. This enzyme is part of a group of related enzymes, called histone deacetylases, that modify proteins called histones. Histones are structural proteins that attach (bind) to DNA and give chromosomes their shape.
By removing a molecule called an acetyl group from histones (a process called deacetylation), histone deacetylases cause the DNA within chromosomes to become tightly packed (compressed). As a result, proteins called transcription factors, which attach (bind) to specific regions of DNA and help control the activity of particular genes, cannot access the DNA. Through deacetylation of histones, histone deacetylase 4 is able to control (regulate) the activity of certain genes.
Histone deacetylase 4 appears to be particularly important for regulating the activity of genes involved in heart and skeletal development. This protein is also involved in nerve cell survival.
Other Names
AHO3; BDMR; HA6116; HD4; HDAC-4; HDAC-A; HDACA; histone deacetylase A; KIAA0288
Related Genetics Topics
Identifiers
- NCBI Gene: 9759
- OMIM: 605314
Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
