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The human histone deacetylase family
1Laboratory for Molecular Development and Tumor Biology, Centre for Molecular Medicine (CMM), Stockholm, S-171 76, Sweden. Steven.Gray@vai.org
Experimental Cell Research
|January 5, 2001
Summary
Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are classified based on yeast homologs like Rpd3 and Hda1. Database analysis suggests up to 17 HDACs in the human genome, clarifying their complex family.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genomics
- Biochemistry
Background:
- The histone deacetylase (HDAC) family has expanded since the initial discovery.
- Existing HDACs are categorized based on similarity to yeast Rpd3-like and Hda1-like proteins.
- Inconsistent nomenclature for Hda1-like HDACs complicates understanding their functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To clarify the nomenclature and classification of histone deacetylases.
- To analyze the full spectrum of HDACs within the human genome.
- To investigate the homology between human and yeast histone deacetylases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of identified histone deacetylases.
- Database analysis of known and potential HDAC candidates.
- Comparative analysis of human HDACs with yeast histone deacetylase homologs.
Main Results:
- Recent discoveries include murine HDACs homologous to yeast Sir2, with seven human homologues identified.
- The study suggests a potential of up to 17 histone deacetylase members in the human genome.
- Detailed analysis provides insights into the homology relationships within the HDAC family.
Conclusions:
- The human histone deacetylase family is larger and more complex than previously recognized.
- Understanding these homology relationships is crucial for deciphering HDAC functions and interactions.
- Further research is warranted to fully characterize the expanded human HDAC repertoire.