A certain regulatory gene is involved in controlling the expression of other genes. In studying this regulatory gene, a scientist discovers that it encodes for an enzyme that causes histone deacetylase (the removal of acetyl groups from histone tails). Based on this information, how would you predict that this enzyme regulates gene expression?

Question

anonymous · Answer

Adding an acetyl group to the histones increases gene expression. It is thought to neutralize the charges between the histones and the DNA (uncoiling it for expression). So if it takes off the acetyl group, based on what I have said, what can you conclude?