Nacetylated

Nacetylated refers to a molecule that carries an acetyl group attached to a nitrogen atom, forming an N-acylated compound. The acetyl group (CH3-CO-) bonded to nitrogen can alter the chemical properties of the molecule, such as reactivity, solubility, and stability. In chemistry and biochemistry, N-acetylation is used to protect amines, modify activity, or serve as a functional handle for further reactions.

In biology, N-terminal acetylation is a widespread post-translational modification in eukaryotes. It is typically catalyzed co-translationally by a family of enzymes known as N-terminal acetyltransferases (Nats), including NatA, NatB, NatC, and others. This modification can influence protein stability, localization, interaction networks, and half-life, and is considered irreversible in vivo for most substrates. Lysine and other amino-group acetylations also occur, notably contributing to regulation of chromatin and enzyme activity in various contexts.

In medicinal chemistry and pharmacology, N-acetylation is used to modify amine-containing drugs or to create prodrugs that release the active compound after acetyl group removal. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a well-known example, used as a mucolytic agent and as an antidote for acetaminophen overdose. Acetylation can affect membrane permeability, metabolic stability, and pharmacokinetics, influencing how a compound behaves in the body.

Chemically, N-acetylation is accomplished with acetylating agents such as acetic anhydride or acetyl chloride, typically on primary or secondary amines to yield acetamide derivatives. Related concepts include acetylation, amide formation, and the activity of N-acetyltransferases in metabolism and biosynthesis.