Brahma homologue protein (BRM)

Brahma homologue protein (BRM) is an evolutionarily conserved DNA-dependent ATPase that serves as the core catalytic subunit of the SWI/SNF (Switch/Sucrose Non-Fermentable) family of ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling complexes[1][2][3][4][5][6][7]. BRM enables transcriptional regulation by modifying nucleosome structure to alter chromatin accessibility for transcription factors. In Drosophila, the brm gene encodes this protein, which is essential for processes such as stem cell proliferation, development, and cell fate determination[1][2]. BRM antagonizes Polycomb group proteins and functions in the Trithorax group to maintain transcriptionally active chromatin states. In mammals, the homologous protein is known as SMARCA2. Dysregulation of BRM is implicated in cancer, where BRG1-deficient tumors exhibit dependency on BRM activity, making it a cancer therapeutic target[3]. The BRM protein’s functions are crucial for cell cycle regulation, differentiation, and tissue homeostasis, with experimental drugs in development aiming to inhibit its ATPase function for potential anti-cancer therapy[3]. BRM also plays roles in genomic stability, circadian rhythm gene regulation, and developmental transitions in different organisms[5].

Other names

Brahma (Brm)SWI/SNF-related, matrix-associated, actin-dependent regulator of chromatin subfamily A member 2 (SMARCA2) [human homologue]Brahma-related gene (Drosophila)Brahma chromatin-remodeling complex

Inhibition of ATPase activity of BRM, leading to downregulation of BRM-dependent gene expression (noted in the context of cancer models)