SWI/SNF Infobase-An exclusive information portal for SWI/SNF remodeling complex subunits

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Genetics
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Chromatin remodeling complexes, like SWI/SNF (Switch/Sucrose Non-Fermentable), regulate DNA accessibility for essential cellular functions.
• The SWI/SNF family, known for tumor suppressor roles, harbors frequent cancer-associated mutations.
• Understanding individual SWI/SNF subunits is key to elucidating their functions and mutation impacts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To curate and catalogue information on SWI/SNF complex subunits.
• To establish a comprehensive database for SWI/SNF subunits and their associated data.
• To facilitate research on SWI/SNF subunit function and cancer-related mutations.

Main Methods:

• Curated a database of SWI/SNF-α (BRG1/BRM-Associated Factors - BAF) and SWI/SNF-β (Polybromo-Associated BAF - PBAF) subunits.
• Collected data from 20 eukaryotic organisms, documenting 27 distinct subunits and 522 non-redundant genes.
• Provided detailed annotations including protein/gene information, sequences, domains, homologs, and human missense mutations.

Main Results:

• Developed the SWI/SNF Infobase, a novel resource detailing 27 SWI/SNF subunits across 20 species.
• The database contains 522 non-redundant genes encoding SWI/SNF subunits with comprehensive annotations.
• Includes a user-friendly interface for accessing protein/gene data, functional domains, homologs, and human missense mutations.

Conclusions:

• The SWI/SNF Infobase is the first dedicated portal for SWI/SNF complex subunits.
• This resource will aid researchers in understanding chromatin remodeling mechanisms.
• It serves as a valuable tool for investigating cancer-causing mutations within SWI/SNF subunits.