[Progress in the regulation of energy metabolic homeostasis by the SWI/SNF complex subunit Baf60a]

Metabolic syndrome is a global chronic epidemic. Its pathogenesis is determined by genetic and environmental factors. Epigenetic modification is reported to regulate gene expression without altering its nucleotide sequences. In recent years, epigenetic modification is sensitively responded to environmental signals, further affecting the gene expression and signaling transduction. Among these regulators, chromatin remodeling SWI/SNF (SWItch/Sucrose non fermentable, SWI/SNF) complex subunit Baf60a plays an important role in maintaining energy homeostasis in mammals. In this paper, we described the pathophysiological roles of Baf60a in maintaining the balance of energy metabolism, including lipid metabolism, cholesterol metabolism, urea metabolism, as well as their rhythmicity. Therefore, in-depth understanding of Baf60a-orchestrated transcriptional network of energy metabolism will provide potential therapeutic targets and reliable theoretical supports for the treatment of metabolic syndrome.