acétylacja

Acétylacja is a chemical reaction in which an acetyl group (CH3CO-) is introduced into a molecule. This process is fundamental in organic chemistry and biochemistry, playing a crucial role in various biological and industrial applications. The acetyl group is typically transferred from an acetylating agent, such as acetic anhydride or acetyl chloride, to a nucleophilic atom, often oxygen, nitrogen, or sulfur, within the target molecule.

In biological systems, acétylacja is a vital post-translational modification for proteins. For example, the acétylacja of lysine residues on histone proteins is a key regulatory mechanism in gene expression. This modification can alter chromatin structure, making genes more or less accessible for transcription. Similarly, acétylacja of enzymes can affect their activity, stability, and localization within the cell. Acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter, is synthesized through the acétylacja of choline.

Industrially, acétylacja is employed in the synthesis of numerous compounds. A prominent example is the production of cellulose acetate, a plastic used in photographic films, textiles, and cigarette filters. Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) is another well-known product of acétylacja, where salicylic acid is acetylated. The reaction is generally carried out under controlled conditions, often with the presence of catalysts, to optimize yield and purity of the desired acetylated product.