Bromodomain PHD finger transcription factor (BPTF)

Bromodomain PHD finger transcription factor (BPTF) is a large, multi-domain nuclear protein functioning as the central and largest subunit of the nucleosome-remodeling factor (NURF) complex, a key ATP-dependent chromatin remodeler[1][3][5]. BPTF contains a plant homeodomain (PHD) finger and a bromodomain, enabling it to read specific histone modifications such as H3K4me3 and H4K16ac[1][2][5]. Through its recognition of these epigenetic marks, BPTF facilitates nucleosome sliding and the modulation of chromatin structure, thereby controlling DNA accessibility and transcriptional activity[2][4][5]. BPTF is critical for early embryonic development, lineage specification, and tissue differentiation in mammals[1][2][4]. Genetic alteration or dysregulation of BPTF is implicated in various cancers, including melanoma, lung cancer, neuroblastoma, and bladder cancer, and its overexpression correlates with poor prognosis in several malignancies[2][5]. Additionally, high levels of the protein and certain isoforms have been detected in fetal brain and in neurodegenerative disease states[3][5]. The essential chromatin- and transcription-associated functions of BPTF, and its dysregulation in disease, make it a promising therapeutic target for the development of selective small-molecule inhibitors, though challenges remain due to its indispensability in normal development and tissue homeostasis[1][2].

Other names

Nucleosome-remodeling factor subunit BPTFFAC1FALZNURF301Fetal Alz-50 clone 1 proteinFetal Alzheimer antigenfetal Alz-50 reactive clone 1nucleosome remodeling factor, large subunit

Inhibition of chromatin association by blocking bromodomain or PHD finger interaction with acetylated or methylated histone tails Disruption of NURF complex formation or chromatin remodeling function