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BRG1/BRM-associated factor chromatin remodeling complexes in cardiovascular disease: Mechanisms and therapeutic

Chang Liu1, Yanjiao Wu1, Liang Wang2

  • 1Department of Cardiology, the First Hospital of China Medical University, 155 Nanjing North Street, Heping District, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning Province, China.

International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
|August 9, 2026
PubMed

Insights

BRG1/BRM-associated factor (BAF) chromatin remodeling complexes are crucial in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This review synthesizes evidence linking BAF subtypes and subunits to various CVDs, offering new therapeutic avenues.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Epigenetics
  • Cardiovascular Research

Background:

  • Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a major global health burden, with underlying epigenetic mechanisms poorly understood.
  • BRG1/BRM-associated factor (BAF) complexes, part of the SWI/SNF family, regulate chromatin accessibility and gene transcription.
  • Mammalian BAF complexes exist in three subtypes (cBAF, PBAF, ncBAF) with distinct roles.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of BAF-dependent chromatin remodeling in various cardiovascular diseases.
  • To highlight subtype- and subunit-specific mechanisms involved in CVD pathogenesis.
  • To explore potential therapeutic strategies targeting BAF complexes for CVD prevention and treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review synthesizing evidence on BAF complexes and CVDs.
  • Analysis of BAF subunit composition and genomic targeting in different CVD contexts.
  • Examination of molecular mechanisms including signaling pathways and protein regulation.

Main Results:

  • BAF complexes are implicated in myocardial infarction, heart failure, atherosclerosis, and other CVDs.
  • Specific BAF subtypes and subunits mediate processes like inflammation, oxidative stress, and extracellular matrix remodeling.
  • Post-translational modifications and protein-protein interactions of BAF components are critical.

Conclusions:

  • BAF-dependent chromatin remodeling is a key epigenetic regulator in cardiovascular pathophysiology.
  • Targeting specific BAF complexes or their interactions offers potential for novel CVD therapies.
  • Further research into tissue-specific delivery and context-dependent effects is warranted.

Keywords:
BRG1/BRM-associated factorCardiovascular diseaseChromatin remodeling complexes

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