Mec-17 is the protein product of one of the 18 genes required for the development and function of the touch receptor neuron for gentle touch. Mec-17 is specifically required for maintaining the differentiation of the touch receptor [1]. The family shares all the residue-motifs characteristic of Gcn5-related acetyl-transferases, though the exact unction is still unknown [2].

1: Identification of genes expressed in C. elegans touch receptor neurons. Zhang Y, Ma C, Delohery T, Nasipak B, Foat BC, Bounoutas A, Bussemaker HJ, Kim SK, Chalfie M; Nature. 2002;418:331-335. PMID:12124626

2: Eukaryotic domain of unknown function DUF738 belongs to Gcn5-related N-acetyltransferase superfamily. Steczkiewicz K, Kinch L, Grishin NV, Rychlewski L, Ginalski K; Cell Cycle. 2006;5:2927-2930. PMID:17172875