npBAF complex

Definition

Target type: cellularcomponent

A SWI/SNF-type complex that is found in neural stem or progenitor cells, and in human contains actin and proteins encoded by the ARID1A/BAF250A or ARID1B/BAF250B, SMARCD1/BAF60A, SMARCD3/BAF60C, SMARCA2/BRM/BAF190B, SMARCA4/BRG1/BAF190A, SMARCB1/BAF47, SMARCC1/BAF155, SMARCE1/BAF57, SMARCC2/BAF170, PHF10/BAF45A, ACTL6A/BAF53A genes. The npBAF complex is essential for the self-renewal/proliferative capacity of the multipotent neural stem cells. [GOC:mah, GOC:ss, PMID:17640523]

The npBAF complex is a nucleosome-remodeling complex that plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression. It is a subcomplex of the BAF (SWI/SNF) complex, which is a highly conserved ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling complex found in eukaryotes. The npBAF complex is specifically found in neurons and is essential for neuronal development and function.

The npBAF complex is composed of multiple subunits, each with its own unique function. These subunits can be broadly categorized into three groups:

1. **ATPase subunit:** The catalytic core of the complex is formed by the ATPase subunit, which is typically BRG1 or SMARCA2 in neurons. This subunit is responsible for hydrolyzing ATP to provide energy for the complex to remodel chromatin.

2. **Chromatin-binding subunits:** These subunits, including BAF155, BAF170, and BAF250, bind to DNA and help the complex target specific regions of the genome. They also interact with other proteins involved in gene regulation.

3. **Scaffold subunits:** These subunits, such as BAF47 and BAF53, provide structural support to the complex and help assemble its various subunits.

The precise composition of the npBAF complex can vary depending on the cell type and developmental stage. However, a core set of subunits is typically present, including:

* **BRG1/SMARCA2:** ATPase subunit, responsible for chromatin remodeling
* **BAF155:** Chromatin-binding subunit, interacts with DNA and other regulatory proteins
* **BAF170:** Chromatin-binding subunit, involved in nucleosome recognition and binding
* **BAF250:** Chromatin-binding subunit, facilitates chromatin remodeling
* **BAF47:** Scaffold subunit, provides structural support
* **BAF53:** Scaffold subunit, helps assemble the complex

The npBAF complex is found in the nucleus of neurons, specifically associated with chromatin. It interacts with other proteins involved in gene regulation, including transcription factors and histone modifiers.

The npBAF complex is essential for neuronal development and function. It is involved in a wide range of processes, including:

* **Gene expression regulation:** The complex can remodel chromatin to make genes more or less accessible to transcription factors, thereby regulating gene expression.
* **Synaptic plasticity:** The complex is involved in the formation and maintenance of synapses, the connections between neurons.
* **Long-term memory formation:** The complex is implicated in the formation of long-term memories, which are thought to involve changes in gene expression.

Mutations in the genes encoding npBAF complex subunits have been linked to a range of neurological disorders, including autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, and epilepsy. This highlights the crucial role of the complex in normal brain development and function.

In summary, the npBAF complex is a highly dynamic and versatile chromatin remodeling complex that plays a critical role in regulating gene expression and neuronal function. Its precise composition and function are still being investigated, but it is clear that it is a key player in the complex network of proteins that govern brain development and behavior.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (2)