¹Section of Neuroscience, Department of Oral Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Lincoln, NE 68583-0740, USA

Correspondence: K Pahan, Section of Neuroscience, Department of Oral Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 40th and Holdrege, Lincoln, NE 68583-0740, USA. Tel: +1-402-472-1324; Fax: +1-402-472-2551; E-mail: kpahan@unmc.edu

Received 28 April 2005; Revised 11 July 2005; Accepted 1 August 2005; Published online 28 October 2005.

Abstract

Gradual disclosure of the molecular basis of selective neuronal apoptosis during neurodegenerative diseases reveals active participation of acetylating and deacetylating agents during the process. Several studies have now successfully manipulated neuronal vulnerability by influencing the dose and enzymatic activity of histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs), enzymes regulating acetylation homeostasis within the nucleus, thus focusing on the importance of balanced acetylation status in neuronal vitality. It is now increasingly becoming clear that acetylation balance is greatly impaired during neurodegenerative conditions. Herein, we attempt to illuminate molecular means by which such impairment is manifested and how the compromised acetylation homeostasis is intimately coupled to neurodegeneration. Finally, we discuss the therapeutic potential of reinstating the HAT–HDAC balance to ameliorate neurodegenerative diseases.