SWI/SNF related BAF chromatin remodeling complex subunit ATPase 4

Normal function

Der SMARCA4 gene provides instructions for making a protein called BRG1, which forms one piece (subunit) of several different protein groupings called SWI/SNF protein complexes. SWI/SNF complexes regulate gene activity (expression) by a process known as chromatin remodeling. Chromatin is the network of DNA and protein that packages DNA into chromosomes. The structure of chromatin can be changed (remodeled) to alter how tightly DNA is packaged. Chromatin remodeling is one way gene expression is regulated during development; when DNA is tightly packed, gene expression is lower than when DNA is loosely packed. The BRG1 protein uses a molecule called ATP to provide energy for chromatin remodeling, although the protein's specific role in remodeling is unclear.

Through their ability to regulate gene activity, SWI/SNF complexes are involved in many processes, including repairing damaged DNA; copying (replicating) DNA; and controlling the growth, division, and maturation (differentiation) of cells. Through these processes, the BRG1 protein and other SWI/SNF subunits are thought to act as tumour suppressors, which keep cells from growing and dividing too rapidly or in an uncontrolled way.

Conditions referring to this gene or chromosome

• Coffin-Siris syndrome

• Lungenkrebs

• Rhabdoid tumour predisposition syndrome

Other names

ATP-dependent helicase SMARCA4

BAF190

brahma protein-like 1

BRG1

BRG1-associated factor 190A

BRM/SWI2-related gene 1

protein BRG-1

RTPS2

SMCA4_HUMAN

SNF2

SWI2

transcription activator BRG1