Catalyzes the conversion of L-glutamate to alpha-N-acetyl-L-glutamate. L-glutamine is a significantly better substrate compared to L-glutamate. acetyl-CoA + L-glutamate = CoA + H(+) + N-acetyl-L-glutamate Inhibited by L-arginine. Amino-acid biosynthesis; L-arginine biosynthesis; N(2)-acetyl-L-ornithine from L-glutamate: step 1/4. Homodimer and homotetramer. Was identified as a high-confidence drug target. Belongs to the acetyltransferase family.