Histones are positively charged proteins found in the chromatin of eukaryotic cells. They regulate gene expression and are required for the organization and packaging of DNA within the nucleus. Histones are extremely conserved, allowing for transcription, replication, and repair. This review delves into their complex structure and function in DNA assembly, their role in nucleosome assembly, and the higher-order chromatin structures they generate. We look at the five different types of histone proteins: H1, H2A, H2B, H3, H4, and their variations. These histones bind with DNA to produce nucleosomes, the basic units of chromatin that are essential for compacting DNA and controlling its accessibility. Their dynamic control of chromatin accessibility has important implications for genomic stability and cellular activities. We elucidate regulatory mechanisms in both normal and pathological situations by investigating their structural features, diverse interaction mechanisms, and chromatin impact. In addition, we discuss the functions of histone post-translational modifications (PTMs) and their significance in various disorders. These alterations, which include methylation, acetylation, phosphorylation, and ubiquitination, are crucial in regulating histone function and chromatin dynamics. We specifically describe and explore the role of changed histones in the evolution of cancer, neurological disorders, sepsis, autoimmune illnesses, and inflammatory conditions. This comprehensive review emphasizes histone's critical role in genomic integrity and their potential as therapeutic targets in various diseases.

Biomaterials and Biotechnology in Animal Health Lab Department of Animal Health and Management Science Campus 6th Floor Alagappa University Karaikudi Tamil Nadu India

Chemomicrobiomics Laboratory Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology KMCH Research Foundation Coimbatore Tamil Nadu India

CsrDD Lab Department of Microbiology Dr D Y Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Centre Dr D Y Patil Vidyapeeth Pimpri Pune India

Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences Prague Czech Republic

P G and Research Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics Holy Cross College Trichy Tamil Nadu India

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