Most eukaryotic cells only express 20-30% of the genes they possess.The formation of heterochromatin maintains the other genes in a transcriptionally silent (unexpressed) state.Which histone modification is associated with the formation of the most common type of heterochromatin?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

H3 lysine 9 methylation is associated with the formation of the most common type of heterochromatin. This modification is catalyzed by enzymes known as histone methyltransferases, which add methyl groups to the lysine 9 residue of histone H3. This modification is also recognized by other proteins, which recruit additional factors to further condense the chromatin and maintain transcriptional repression.

Most Eukaryotic Cells Only Express 20-30% of the Genes They