Histone acetyltransferase 1 (HAT1)

Histone acetyltransferase 1 (HAT1) is a highly conserved enzyme responsible for the acetylation of newly synthesized histone H4 at lysine 5 and lysine 12 prior to chromatin assembly. It functions as the catalytic subunit of the type B histone acetyltransferase complex and associates with WD40 repeat-containing regulatory proteins (e.g., RbAp46/RBBP7) that enhance its activity. HAT1-mediated acetylation is crucial for chromatin replication, maturation, and is involved in transcriptional regulation by promoting nucleosome assembly and facilitating access to DNA regulatory proteins. Disruption or dysregulation of HAT1 is linked to oncogenic processes and chromatin-associated diseases, making it a relevant biological and potential therapeutic target.

Other names

HAT1KAT1histone acetyltransferase type B catalytic subunitHistone acetyltransferase 1

Inhibition of HAT1 would decrease histone H4 acetylation, affecting chromatin assembly and gene expression, with possible anti-cancer utility in overexpressing settings. Activation would theoretically enhance acetylation and alter chromatin accessibility and transcription.