Posttranslational modification of histone proteins by phosphorylation or acetylation results in
A) dissociation of the histone octamer proteins.
B) higher affinity binding between histones and DNA.
C) repression of transcription.
D) reduction of the overall positive charge of the histones.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Phosphorylation and acetylation of histone proteins reduce their overall positive charge by adding negatively charged phosphate groups or neutralizing the positive charge through acetylation. This reduction in positive charge weakens the interaction between the histones and the negatively charged DNA, facilitating access for transcription machinery.

Posttranslational Modification of Histone Proteins by Phosphorylation or Acetylation Results