Deacetylases are enzymes that remove acetyl groups from proteins, a process known as deacetylation. This modification can influence various cellular functions, including gene expression, protein stability, and enzyme activity. By altering the acetylation status of proteins, deacetylases play a crucial role in regulating cellular processes and maintaining homeostasis. There are several types of deacetylases, including histone deacetylases (HDACs) and sirtuins. HDACs primarily target histones, which are proteins that help package DNA in cells, while sirtuins are involved in cellular stress responses and metabolism. Both types of deacetylases are important for various biological functions and have been studied for their potential roles in diseases like cancer and neurodegeneration.