Which of the following causes transcription to be increased for a specific gene?

• A. Histones in that region are deacetylated.
• B. DNA is methylated in the regulatory region of the gene.
• C. Histones in that region are acetylated.
• D. The chromatin structure is tightly packed.
• E. B and D.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of histones in gene expression: Histones are proteins that help package DNA into chromatin. Their acetylation status can influence transcription levels.
2. Learn about histone acetylation: Acetylation of histones typically leads to a more relaxed chromatin structure, allowing transcription machinery better access to DNA, thus increasing transcription.
3. Explore DNA methylation: Methylation of DNA, especially in regulatory regions, often suppresses gene expression by preventing transcription factors from binding.
4. Examine chromatin structure: Tightly packed chromatin (heterochromatin) is generally associated with reduced transcription, while loosely packed chromatin (euchromatin) is associated with increased transcription.
5. Apply this knowledge to the options: Histone acetylation increases transcription, while deacetylation, DNA methylation, and tightly packed chromatin generally decrease transcription.