Brg1 chromatin remodeling factor is involved in cell growth arrest, apoptosis and senescence of rat mesenchymal stem cells

Tumor suppressors RBL1 and PTEN are epigenetically silenced in IPF mesenchymal progenitor cells by a CD44/Brg1/PRMT5 regulatory complex

The idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) lung contains mesenchymal progenitor cells (MPCs) that display durable activation of oncogenic signaling and cell-autonomous fibrogenicity in vivo. Prior work identified a CD44/Brg1/PRMT5 nuclear regulatory module in IPF MPCs that increased the expression of genes positively regulating pluripotency and self-renewal. Left unanswered is how IPF MPCs evade negative regulation of self-renewal. Here we sought to identify mechanisms disabling negative regulation of self-renewal in IPF MPCs. We demonstrate that expression of the tumor suppressor genes rbl1 and pten is decreased in IPF MPCs. The mechanism involves the CD44-facilitated association of the chromatin remodeler Brg1 with the histone-modifying methyltransferase PRMT5. Brg1 enhances chromatin accessibility leading to PRMT5-mediated methylation of H3R8 and H4R3 on the rbl1 and pten genes, repressing their expression. Genetic knockdown or pharmacological inhibition of either Brg1 or PRMT5 restored RBL1 and PTEN expression reduced IPF MPC self-renewal in vitro and inhibited IPF MPC-mediated pulmonary fibrosis in vivo. Our studies indicate that the CD44/Brg1/PRMT5 regulatory module not only functions to activate positive regulators of pluripotency and self-renewal but also functions to repress tumor suppressor genes rbl1 and pten. This confers IPF MPCs with the cancer-like property of cell-autonomous self-renewal providing a molecular mechanism for relentless fibrosis progression in IPF.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Here we demonstrate that a CD44/Brg1/PRMT5 epigenetic regulatory module represses the tumor suppressor genes RBL1 and PTEN in IPF mesenchymal progenitor cells, thereby promoting their self-renewal and maintenance of a critical pool of fibrogenic mesenchymal progenitor cells.

Chromatin remodeling in tissue stem cell fate determination

Tissue stem cells (TSCs), which reside in specialized tissues, constitute the major cell sources for tissue homeostasis and regeneration, and the contribution of transcriptional or epigenetic regulation of distinct biological processes in TSCs has been discussed in the past few decades. Meanwhile, ATP-dependent chromatin remodelers use the energy from ATP hydrolysis to remodel nucleosomes, thereby affecting chromatin dynamics and the regulation of gene expression programs in each cell type. However, the role of chromatin remodelers in tissue stem cell fate determination is less well understood. In this review, we systematically discuss recent advances in epigenetic control by chromatin remodelers of hematopoietic stem cells, intestinal epithelial stem cells, neural stem cells, and skin stem cells in their fate determination and highlight the importance of their essential role in tissue homeostasis, development, and regeneration. Moreover, the exploration of the molecular and cellular mechanisms of TSCs is crucial for advancing our understanding of tissue maintenance and for the discovery of novel therapeutic targets.

Epigenetic regulations of cellular senescence in osteoporosis

Osteoporosis (OP) is a prevalent age-related disease that is characterized by a decrease in bone mineral density (BMD) and systemic bone microarchitectural disorders. With age, senescent cells accumulate and exhibit the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) in bone tissue, leading to the imbalance of bone homeostasis, osteopenia, changes in trabecular bone structure, and increased bone fragility. Cellular senescence in the bone microenvironment involves osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), whose effects on bone homeostasis are regulated by epigenetics. Therefore, the epigenetic regulatory mechanisms of cellular senescence have received considerable attention as potential targets for preventing and treating osteoporosis. In this paper, we systematically review the mechanisms of aging-associated epigenetic regulation in osteoporosis, emphasizing the impact of epigenetics on cellular senescence, and summarize three current methods of targeting cellular senescence, which is helpful better to understand the pathogenic mechanisms of cellular senescence in osteoporosis and provides strategies for the development of epigenetic drugs for the treatment of osteoporosis.

SWI/SNF Complex Alterations in Tumors with Rhabdoid Features: Novel Therapeutic Approaches and Opportunities for Adoptive Cell Therapy

The SWItch/Sucrose Non-Fermentable (SWI/SNF) chromatin-remodeling complex is one of the most remarkably altered epigenetic regulators in cancer. Pathogenic mutations in genes encoding SWI/SNF-related proteins have been recently described in many solid tumors, including rare and aggressive malignancies with rhabdoid features with no standard therapies in advanced or metastatic settings. In recent years, clinical trials with targeted drugs aimed at restoring its function have shown discouraging results. However, preclinical data have found an association between these epigenetic alterations and response to immune therapy. Thus, the rationale for immunotherapy strategies in SWI/SNF complex alteration-related tumors is strong. Here, we review the SWI/SNF complex and how its dysfunction drives the oncogenesis of rhabdoid tumors and the proposed strategies to revert this alteration and promising novel therapeutic approaches, including immune checkpoint inhibition and adoptive cell therapy.

Molecular Crosstalk between Chromatin Remodeling and Tumor Microenvironment in Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a complex disease driven by numerous genetic and epigenetic alterations that are acquired over time. Despite recent progress in the understanding of MM pathobiology and the availability of innovative drugs, which have pronounced clinical outcome, this malignancy eventually progresses to a drug-resistant lethal stage and, thus, novel therapeutic drugs/models always play an important role in effective management of MM. Modulation of tumor microenvironment is one of the hallmarks of cancer biology, including MM, which affects the myeloma genomic architecture and disease progression subtly through chromatin modifications. The bone marrow niche has a prime role in progression, survival, and drug resistance of multiple myeloma cells. Therefore, it is important to develop means for targeting the ecosystem between multiple myeloma bone marrow microenvironment and chromatin remodeling. Extensive gene expression profile analysis has indeed provided the framework for new risk stratification of MM patients and identifying novel molecular targets and therapeutics. However, key tumor microenvironment factors/immune cells and their interactions with chromatin remodeling complex proteins that drive MM cell growth and progression remain grossly undefined.

Brahma-related gene-1 promotes tubular senescence and renal fibrosis through Wnt/β-catenin/autophagy axis

Although accelerated cellular senescence is closely related to the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and renal fibrosis, the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. Here, we reported that tubular aberrant expression of Brahma-related gene 1 (BRG1), an enzymatic subunit of the SWItch/Sucrose Non-Fermentable complex, is critically involved in tubular senescence and renal fibrosis. BRG1 was significantly up-regulated in the kidneys, predominantly in tubular epithelial cells, of both CKD patients and unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) mice. In vivo, shRNA-mediated knockdown of BRG1 significantly ameliorated renal fibrosis, improved tubular senescence, and inhibited UUO-induced activation of Wnt/β-catenin pathway. In mouse renal tubular epithelial cells (mTECs) and primary renal tubular cells, inhibition of BRG1 diminished transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-induced cellular senescence and fibrotic responses. Correspondingly, ectopic expression of BRG1 in mTECs or normal kidneys increased p16INK4a, p19ARF, and p21 expression and senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) activity, indicating accelerated tubular senescence. Additionally, BRG1-mediated pro-fibrotic responses were largely abolished by small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated p16INK4a silencing in vitro or continuous senolytic treatment with ABT-263 in vivo. Moreover, BRG1 activated the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, which further inhibited autophagy. Pharmacologic inhibition of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway (ICG-001) or rapamycin (RAPA)-mediated activation of autophagy effectively blocked BRG1-induced tubular senescence and fibrotic responses, while bafilomycin A1 (Baf A1)-mediated inhibition of autophagy abolished the effects of ICG-001. Further, BRG1 altered the secretome of senescent tubular cells, which promoted proliferation and activation of fibroblasts. Taken together, our results indicate that BRG1 induces tubular senescence by inhibiting autophagy via the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, which ultimately contributes to the development of renal fibrosis.

A CD44/Brg1 nuclear complex confers mesenchymal progenitor cells with enhanced fibrogenicity in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive fibrotic lung disease. We previously identified fibrogenic mesenchymal progenitor cells (MPCs) in the lungs of patients with IPF who serve as drivers of progressive fibrosis. Recent single-cell RNA sequencing work revealed that IPF MPCs with the highest transcriptomic network entropy differ the most from control MPCs and that increased CD44 was a marker of these IPF MPCs. We hypothesize that IPF MPCs with high CD44 (CD44^hi) expression will display enhanced fibrogenicity. We demonstrate that CD44-expressing MPCs are present at the periphery of the IPF fibroblastic focus, placing them in regions of active fibrogenesis. In a humanized mouse xenograft model, CD44^hi IPF MPCs are more fibrogenic than CD44^lo IPF MPCs, and knockdown of CD44 diminishes their fibrogenicity. CD44^hi IPF MPCs display increased expression of pluripotency markers and enhanced self-renewal compared with CD44^lo IPF MPCs, properties potentiated by IL-8. The mechanism involves the accumulation of CD44 within the nucleus, where it associates with the chromatin modulator protein Brahma-related gene 1 (Brg1) and the zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (Zeb1) transcription factor. This CD44/Brg1/Zeb1 nuclear protein complex targets the Sox2 gene, promoting its upregulation and self-renewal. Our data implicate CD44 interaction with the epigenetic modulator protein Brg1 in conveying IPF MPCs with cell-autonomous fibrogenicity.

BRG1 Links TLR4 Trans-Activation to LPS-Induced SREBP1a Expression and Liver Injury

Multiple organ failure is one of the most severe consequences in patients with septic shock. Liver injury is frequently observed during this pathophysiological process. In the present study we investigated the contribution of Brahma related gene 1 (BRG1), a chromatin remodeling protein, to septic shock induced liver injury. When wild type (WT) and liver conditional BRG1 knockout (LKO) mice were injected with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), liver injury was appreciably attenuated in the LKO mice compared to the WT mice as evidenced by plasma ALT/AST levels, hepatic inflammation and apoptosis. Of interest, there was a down-regulation of sterol response element binding protein 1a (SREBP1a), known to promote liver injury, in the LKO livers compared to the WT livers. BRG1 did not directly bind to the SREBP1a promoter. Instead, BRG1 was recruited to the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) promoter and activated TLR4 transcription. Ectopic TLR4 restored SREBP1a expression in BRG1-null hepatocytes. Congruently, adenovirus carrying TLR4 or SREBP1a expression vector normalized liver injury in BRG1 LKO mice injected with LPS. Finally, a positive correlation between BRG1 and TLR4 expression was detected in human liver biopsy specimens. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that a BRG1-TLR4-SREBP1a axis that mediates LPS-induced liver injury in mice.

ATP-Dependent Chromatin Remodeling Complex in the Lineage Specification of Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) present in multiple tissues can self-renew and differentiate into multiple lineages including the bone, cartilage, muscle, cardiac tissue, and connective tissue. Key events, including cell proliferation, lineage commitment, and MSC differentiation, are ensured by precise gene expression regulation. ATP-dependent chromatin alteration is one form of epigenetic modifications that can regulate the transcriptional level of specific genes by utilizing the energy from ATP hydrolysis to reorganize chromatin structure. ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling complexes consist of a variety of subunits that together perform multiple functions in self-renewal and lineage specification. This review highlights the important role of ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling complexes and their different subunits in modulating MSC fate determination and discusses the proposed mechanisms by which ATP-dependent chromatin remodelers function.

ATP-dependent chromatin remodelers in ageing and age-related disorders

Ageing is characterized by the perturbation in cellular homeostasis associated with genomic instability, telomere attrition, epigenetic alterations, loss of proteostasis, deregulated nutrient sensing, mitochondrial dysfunction, cellular senescence, stem cell exhaustion and altered intracellular communication. Changes in the epigenome represent one of the crucial mechanisms during ageing and in age-related disorders. The ATP-dependent chromatin remodelers are an evolutionarily conserved family of nucleosome remodelling factors and generally regulate DNA repair, replication, recombination, transcription and cell cycle. Here, we review the chromatin based epigenetic changes that occur in ageing and age-related disorders with a specific reference to chromatin remodelers. We also discuss the link between dietary restriction and chromatin remodelers in regulating age-related processes with a view for consideration in future intervention studies.

Epigenetic Regulation in Mesenchymal Stem Cell Aging and Differentiation and Osteoporosis

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a reliable source for cell-based regenerative medicine owing to their multipotency and biological functions. However, aging-induced systemic homeostasis disorders in vivo and cell culture passaging in vitro induce a functional decline of MSCs, switching MSCs to a senescent status with impaired self-renewal capacity and biased differentiation tendency. MSC functional decline accounts for the pathogenesis of many diseases and, more importantly, limits the large-scale applications of MSCs in regenerative medicine. Growing evidence implies that epigenetic mechanisms are a critical regulator of the differentiation programs for cell fate and are subject to changes during aging. Thus, we here review epigenetic dysregulations that contribute to MSC aging and osteoporosis. Comprehending detailed epigenetic mechanisms could provide us with a novel horizon for dissecting MSC-related pathogenesis and further optimizing MSC-mediated regenerative therapies.

Translational genomics of malignant rhabdoid tumours: Current impact and future possibilities

Malignant Rhabdoid Tumours (MRT) are the quintessential example of an epigenetic cancer. Mutation of a single gene, SMARCB1 or more rarely SMARCA4, is capable of causing one of the most aggressive and lethal cancers of early childhood and infancy. SMARCB1 encodes a core subunit of the SWI/SNF complex and its mutation evokes genome-wide downstream effects which may be counteracted therapeutically. Here we review and discuss the use of translational genomics in the study of MRT biology and the ways in which this has impacted clinical practice or may do so in the future. First, the diagnosis and definition of MRT and the transition from a histopathological to a molecular definition. Second, epigenetic and transcriptomic subgroups within MRT, their defining features and potential prognostic or therapeutic significance. Third, functional genomic studies of MRT by mouse modelling and forced re-expression of SMARCB1 in MRT cells. Fourth, studies of underlying epigenetic mechanisms (e.g. EZH2, HDACs) or deregulated kinases (e.g. PDGFR, FGFR1) and the potential therapeutic opportunities these provide. Finally, we discuss likely future directions and proffer opinion on how future translational genomics should be integrated into future biological/clinical studies to select and evaluate the best anti-MRT therapeutic agents.

Cellular senescence regulated by SWI/SNF complex subunits through p53/p21 and p16/pRB pathway

SWI/SNF complex is an evolutionarily well-conserved chromatin-remodeling complex, which is implicated in the nucleosomes removing or sliding, impacting on the DNA repair, replication and genes expression regulation. The SWI/SNF complex consists up to 12 protein subunits. The catalytic subunits are BRG1 or BRM, which are exclusive ATPase subunits. BRG1 has been reported to play an important role in cellular senescence. However, The function of non-catalytic subunits involved in cellular senescence is rarely investigated. Therefore, we focused on the senescence regulation roles of SWI/SNF non-catalytic subunits in cellular senescent model induced by H2O2. H2O2 treatment was used to induce cellular senescence models in vitro. Screening the candidate subunits involved in this process by comparing the expression levels of SWI/SNF subunits with/without H2O2 treatment. Over-expression and knockdown the candidate subunits were utilized to investigate the functions and mechanism of the subunits involved in senescence regulation. The expressions of BAF57, BAF60a and SNF5 were changed significantly after H2O2 treatment. Overexpression of the three subunits separately induced cell growth arrest in both HaCaT and GLL19 cells, while knockdown of the subunits separately eased the senescence induced by H2O2 treatment. Results further showed that BAF57, BAF60a and SNF5 regulated cellular senescence via both p53/p21 and p16/pRB pathways, and the three subunits all had a directly interaction with p53. These results indicated that BAF57, BAF60a and SNF5 might act as novel pro-senescence factors in both normal and tumor human skin cells. Therefore, inhibiting expression of the three factors might delay the cellular senescence process.

Loss of BRG1 induces CRC cell senescence by regulating p53/p21 pathway

Brahma-related gene-1 (BRG1) is the specific ATPase of switch/sucrose nonfermentable chromatin-remodeling complex that is aberrantly expressed or mutated in various cancers. However, the exact role of BRG1 in oncogenesis remains unknown. In this study, we demonstrate that the knockdown (KD) of BRG1 promotes cellular senescence by influencing the SIRT1/p53/p21 signal axis in colorectal cancer (CRC). In particular, we reveal that the expression level of BRG1 is inversely correlated with p21, one of the classic senescence regulators, and is decreased in senescent CRC cells. KD of BRG1 promoting senescence is indicated by the increase of senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) activity, inhibition of cell proliferation, induction of cell cycle arrest, and formation of senescence-associated heterochromatin foci. BRG1 binds to SIRT1 and interferes with SIRT1-mediated deacetylation of p53 at K382. Rescue experiments by co-silencing p53 or treatment with EX527, a SIRT1-specific inhibitor, abrogated the cellular senescence induced by KD of BRG1. BRG1 KD cells resulted in smaller tumor formation than that in control cells in vivo. Collectively, our study shows that BRG1 has an important role in cellular senescence and tumor growth. The BRG1/SIRT1/p53 signal axis is a novel mechanism of cell senescence in CRC and is a new potential target for cancer therapy.

Effects of herbal Epimedium on the improvement of bone metabolic disorder through the induction of osteogenic differentiation from bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells

Herbal Epimedium (HE) has been commonly used as a tonic, antirheumatic agent and in the treatment of bone-associated diseases including osteoporosis. Treatment for osteoporosis is important to increase bone mass density and maintain to balance of bone remodeling. The present study was performed to investigate the effects of HE on mouse bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (mBMMSC) proliferation and osteogenic differentiation, using MTT assays, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) detection and apoptosis and differentiation assays. HE was demonstrated to inhibit the proliferation of mBMMSCs up to 45.43±3.33% and to decrease the level of PCNA expression compared with untreated cells. HE also induced late apoptosis at 24 and 48 h after treatment up to 71.93 and 67.03%, respectively, while only 14.93% of untreated cells exhibited apoptosis. By contrast, HE induced differentiation of mBMMSCs into an osteogenic lineage at the beginning of three weeks after commencement of treatment. This suggested that HE is a candidate as an inducer of osteogenesis from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, and additionally has potential for use in the treatment of bone metabolic disorders such as osteoporosis.

Brahma-related gene 1 induces apoptosis in a p53-dependent manner in human rheumatoid fibroblast-like synoviocyte MH7A

Blocked apoptosis and aggressive inflammatory responses occur in fibroblast-like synoviocyte (FLS) of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. Although Brahma-related gene 1 (BRG1) is considered as a tumor suppressor, few research covers its role in RA. This study aims to reveal effects and potential mechanisms of BRG1 in human FLS cell line MH7A.BRG1 expression in MH7A cells was altered by transfection of overexpression vectors or short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs). Cell viability and apoptosis were detected by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and flow cytometry after transfection. Factors involved in inflammation and apoptosis were quantified by qPCR and Western blot. The interaction between BRG1 and p53 was assessed by immunoprecipitation (IP).Results showed that BRG1 overexpression significantly suppressed MH7A cell viability and induced apoptosis (P < 0.01), and its knockdown had opposite effects. BRG1 reduced mRNA levels of matrix metallopeptidase 3, TIMP metallopeptidase inhibitor 2, cyclooxygenase 2, and interleukin 6, implying its suppressive effects on inflammation. BRG1 interacted with and promoted p53 (P < 0.05). B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia/lymphoma 2 was suppressed (P < 0.05), while cytochrome c, caspase 3 (CASP3) and CASP9 were activated (P < 0.01) by BRG1. However, the regulation on these factors was abrogated by p53 knockdown (P < 0.01).These findings suggest that BRG1 may induce apoptosis and suppress inflammation in MH7A cells. Potential functional mechanisms involve the regulation of apoptotic factors by BRG1, which may depend on the recruitment and promotion of p53. This study provides the essential proof for applying BRG1 to the molecular therapy of RA.

Neuroprotective effects of a chromatin modifier on ischemia/reperfusion neurons: implication of its regulation of BCL2 transactivation by ERα signaling

An understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα)-mediated neuroprotective effects is valuable for the development of therapeutic strategy against neuronal ischemic injury. Here, we report the upregulated expression of metastasis-associated protein 1 (MTA1), a master chromatin modifier and transcriptional regulator, in the murine middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model. Inhibition of MTA1 expression by in vivo short interfering RNA treatment potentiated neuronal apoptosis in a caspase-3-dependent manner and thereafter aggravated MCAO-induced neuronal damage. Mechanistically, the pro-survival effects of MTA1 required the participation of ERα signaling. We also provide in vitro evidence that MTA1 enhances the binding of ERα with the BCL2 promoter upon ischemic insults via recruitment of HDAC2 together with other unidentified coregulators, thus promoting the ERα-mediated transactivation of the BCL2 gene. Collectively, our results suggest that the augmentation of endogenous MTA1 expression during neuronal ischemic injury acts additionally to an endocrinous cascade orchestrating intimate interactions between ERα and BCL2 pathways and operates as an indispensable defensive mechanism in response to neuronal ischemia/reperfusion stress. Future studies in this field will shed light on the modulation of the complicated neuroprotective effects by estrogen signaling.

De-regulated expression of the BRG1 chromatin remodeling factor in bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells induces senescence associated with the silencing of NANOG and changes in the levels of chromatin proteins

Stem cells have a peculiar chromatin architecture that contributes to their unique properties, including uncommitted status, multi/pluripotency and self-renewal. We analyzed the effect of the de-regulation of the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex in mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) through the silencing and up-regulation of BRG1, which is the ATPase subunit of the complex. The altered expression of BRG1 promoted the senescence of MSC with suppression of the NANOG transcription, which is part of the transcriptional circuitry governing stem cell functions. To gain insight on the way NANOG was silenced, we evaluated how the de-regulated BRG1 expression affect the binding of activators and repressors on the NANOG promoter. We found 4 E2F binding motifs on NANOG promoter, which can be occupied by RB1 and RB2/P130. These are members of the retinoblastoma gene family. In MSC with a silenced BRG1, the relative binding of the 2 retinoblastoma proteins increased, and this was associated with the recruitment of DNMT1. This induced the methylation of CpG on the NANOG promoter. Opposingly, when a high level of BRG1 was present, the same E2F binding motifs were docking sites for BRG1, which induced chromatin compaction without CpG methylation but with increased histone deacetylation, associated with the presence of HDAC1 on E2F binding sites. Besides the sharp regulation of the NANOG expression, we evidenced, through proteomic analysis, that the de-regulation of the SWI/SNF function affected the expression of histones and other nuclear proteins involved in "nuclear architecture," suggesting that BRG1 may act as global regulator of gene expression.

BRG1 overexpression in smooth muscle cells promotes the development of thoracic aortic dissection

Background

Here we investigated Brahma-related gene 1 (BRG1) expression in aortic smooth muscle cells (SMCs) and its role in the regulation of the pathological changes in aortic SMCs of thoracic arotic dissection (TAD).

Methods

BRG1, matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2), and MMP9 mRNA and protein expression in human aortic specimens were examined by qPCR and western blot, respectively. The percentage of apoptotic and contractile SMCs in aortic specimens were determined by TUNEL assay and α-SMA immunohistochemical staining, respectively. The role of BRG1 in MMP2 and MMP9 expression, cell apoptosis, and phenotype transition in aortic SMCs were investigated using a human aortic SMC line via adenovirus mediated gene transfer. MMPs mRNA and protein levels were analyzed by qPCR and western blot, respectively. The percentage of apoptotic and contractile cells were determined through flow cytometry analysis.

Results

The expression level of BRG1 in the aortic walls (adventitia-removed) was significantly higher in the TAD than the normal group. BRG1 expression was positively correlated to expression of MMP2 and MMP9 and SMC apoptosis, but was negatively correlated to the percentage of contractile aortic SMCs in TAD specimens. In human aortic SMC line, BRG1 transfection led to significant upregulation of MMP2 and MMP9 expression and a concomitant increase in SMC apoptosis as well as a decrease in the percentage of contractile phenotype of cells.

Conclusions

BRG1 is significantly upregulated in the aortic SMCs of TAD, and its overexpression might promote the development of TAD by increasing MMP2 and MMP9 expression, inducing SMC apoptosis and the transition from contractile to synthetic phenotype.

Changes in PTTG1 by human TERT gene expression modulate the self-renewal of placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells

In addition to their differentiation potential, self-renewal capability is an important characteristic of stem cells. The limited self-renewal activity of mesenchymal stem cells is the greatest obstacle to the application of stem cell therapy in regenerative medicine. The human TERT gene enhances the self-renewal of MSCs, but the mechanism of self-renewal and the interactions among TERT-gene-related molecules remain unknown. The objectives of this study were to generate immortalized MSCs derived from MSCs isolated from placenta (naive) by human TERT gene transfection with the AMAXA gene delivery system, to compare their characteristics, and to investigate whether increased TERT expression affected the pituitary tumor transforming gene (PTTG1; also known as securin), which is involved in chromosome segregation during mitosis. TERT-immortalized cells (TERT+) with a prolonged life span displayed high PTTG1 expression. TERT+ cells also retained the stemness capacity and multipotency of naive cells and displayed high PTTG1 expression. However, down-regulation of PTTG1 by treatment with short interfering RNA induced cell senescence and decreased telomerase activity. Moreover, TERT bound to PTTG1 formed complexes with chaperones such as Ku70 and heat shock protein 90. Thus, placental MSCs immortalized by TERT gene transfection display differentiation potential and exhibit enhanced self-renewal through a balanced interaction of PTTG1 and chaperones. The interaction between TERT and PTTG1 by association of Ku70 might be important for the enhancement of the limited self-renewal activity of MSCs and for understanding the regulatory mechanisms of self-renewal.

Recurrent SMARCA4 mutations in small cell carcinoma of the ovary

Small cell carcinoma of the ovary, hypercalcemic type (SCCOHT) is a rare, highly aggressive form of ovarian cancer primarily diagnosed in young women. We identified inactivating biallelic SMARCA4 mutations in 100% of the 12 SCCOHT tumors examined. Protein studies confirmed loss of SMARCA4 expression, suggesting a key role for the SWI/SNF chromatin-remodeling complex in SCCOHT.

Brg1 is required for stem cell maintenance in the murine intestinal epithelium in a tissue-specific manner

Brg1 is a chromatin remodeling factor involved in mediation of a plethora of signaling pathways leading to its participation in various physiological processes both during development and in adult tissues. Among other signaling pathways, the Wnt pathway has been proposed to require Brg1 for transactivation of its target genes. Given the pivotal role of the Wnt pathway in the maintenance of normal intestinal homeostasis, we aimed to investigate the effects of Brg1 loss on the intestinal physiology. To this end, we deleted Brg1 in the murine small and large intestinal epithelia using a range of transgenic approaches. Pan-epithelial loss of Brg1 in the small intestine resulted in crypt ablation, while partial Brg1 deficiency led to gradual repopulation of the intestinal mucosa with wild-type cells. In contrast, Brg1 loss in the large intestinal epithelium was compensated by upregulation of Brm. We propose that while Brg1 is dispensable for the survival and function of the progenitor and differentiated cells in the murine intestinal epithelium, it is essential for the maintenance of the stem cell population in a tissue-specific manner.

Functional impairment of bone formation in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis: the bone marrow regenerative competence

The skeleton is a high-renewal organ that undergoes ongoing cycles of remodeling. The regenerative bone formation arm ultimately declines in the aging, postmenopausal skeleton, but current therapies do not adequately address this deficit. Bone marrow is the primary source of the skeletal anabolic response and the mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which give rise to bone matrix-producing osteoblasts. The identity of these stem cells is emerging, but it now appears that the term 'MSC' has often been misapplied to the bone marrow stromal cell (BMSC), a progeny of the MSC. Nevertheless, the changes in BMSC phenotype associated with age and estrogen depletion likely contribute to the attenuated regenerative competence of the marrow and may reflect alterations in MSC phenotype. Here we summarize current concepts in bone marrow MSC identity, and within this context, review recent observations on changes in bone marrow population dynamics associated with aging and menopause.

ARID1B, a member of the human SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex, exhibits tumour-suppressor activities in pancreatic cancer cell lines

BACKGROUND

The human ATP-dependent SWItch/sucrose nonfermentable (SWI/SNF) complex functions as a primary chromatin remodeler during ontogeny, as well as in adult life. Several components of the complex have been suggested to function as important regulators of tumorigenesis in various cancers. In the current study, we have characterised a possible tumour suppressor role for the largest subunit of the complex, namely the AT-rich interaction domain 1B (ARID1B).

METHODS

We performed Azacytidine and Trichostatin A treatments, followed by bisulphite sequencing to determine the possible DNA methylation-induced transcription repression of the gene in pancreatic cancer (PaCa) cell lines. Functional characterisation of effect of ARID1B ectopic expression in MiaPaCa2 PaCa cell line, which harboured ARID1B homozygous deletion, was carried out. Finally, we evaluated ARID1B protein expression in pancreatic tumour samples using immunohistochemistry on a tissue microarray.

RESULTS

ARID1B was transcriptionally repressed due to promoter hypermethylation, and ectopic expression severely compromised the ability of MiaPaCa2 cells to form colonies in liquid culture and soft agar. In addition, ARID1B exhibited significantly reduced/loss of expression in PaCa tissue, especially in samples from advanced-stage tumours, when compared with normal pancreas.

CONCLUSION

The results therefore suggest a possible tumour-suppressor function for ARID1B in PaCa, thus adding to the growing list of SWI/SNF components with a similar function. Given the urgent need to design efficient targeted therapies for PaCa, our study assumes significance.

BRG1 is required for formation of senescence-associated heterochromatin foci induced by oncogenic RAS or BRCA1 loss

Cellular senescence is an important tumor suppression mechanism. We have previously reported that both oncogene-induced dissociation of BRCA1 from chromatin and BRCA1 knockdown itself drive senescence by promoting formation of senescence-associated heterochromatin foci (SAHF). However, the molecular mechanism by which BRCA1 regulates SAHF formation and senescence is unclear. BRG1 is a chromatin-remodeling factor that interacts with BRCA1 and pRB. Here we show that BRG1 is required for SAHF formation and senescence induced by oncogenic RAS or BRCA1 loss. The interaction between BRG1 and BRCA1 is disrupted during senescence. This correlates with an increased level of chromatin-associated BRG1 in senescent cells. BRG1 knockdown suppresses the formation of SAHF and senescence, while it has no effect on BRCA1 chromatin dissociation induced by oncogenic RAS, indicating that BRG1 functions downstream of BRCA1 chromatin dissociation. Furthermore, BRG1 knockdown inhibits SAHF formation and senescence induced by BRCA1 knockdown. Conversely, BRG1 overexpression drives SAHF formation and senescence in a DNA damage-independent manner. This effect depends upon BRG1's chromatin-remodeling activity as well as the interaction between BRG1 and pRB. Indeed, the interaction between BRG1 and pRB is enhanced during senescence. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis revealed that BRG1's association with the human CDKN2A and CDKN1A gene promoters was enhanced during senescence induced by oncogenic RAS or BRCA1 knockdown. Consistently, knockdown of pRB, p21(CIP1), and p16(INK4a), but not p53, suppressed SAHF formation induced by BRG1. Together, these studies reveal the molecular underpinning by which BRG1 acts downstream of BRCA1 to promote SAHF formation and senescence.

Direct imaging of RecA nucleation and growth on single molecules of SSB-coated ssDNA

Escherichia coli RecA is the defining member of a ubiquitous class of DNA strand exchange proteins that are essential for homologous recombination, a pathway that maintains genomic integrity by repairing broken DNA¹. To function, filaments of RecA must nucleate and grow on single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) in direct competition with ssDNA-binding protein (SSB), which rapidly binds and continuously sequesters ssDNA, kinetically blocking RecA assembly^2,3. This dynamic self-assembly on a DNA lattice, in competition with another protein, is unique for the RecA-family relative to other filament-forming proteins such as actin and tubulin. The complexity of this process has hindered our understanding of RecA filament assembly because ensemble measurements cannot reliably distinguish between the nucleation and growth phases, despite extensive and diverse attempts^2–5. Previous single-molecule assays have measured nucleation and growth of RecA—and its eukaryotic homolog RAD51—on naked dsDNA and ssDNA^6–12; however, the template for RecA self-assembly in vivo is SSB-coated ssDNA³. Using single-molecule microscopy, we directly visualized RecA filament assembly on single molecules of SSB-coated ssDNA, simultaneously measuring nucleation and growth. We establish that a dimer of RecA is required for nucleation, followed by growth of the filament through monomer addition, consistent with the finding that nucleation, but not growth, is modulated by nucleotide and magnesium ion cofactors. Filament growth is bidirectional, albeit faster in the 5′→3′ direction. Both nucleation and growth are repressed at physiological conditions, highlighting the essential role of recombination mediators in potentiating assembly in vivo. We define a two-step kinetic mechanism where RecA nucleates on transiently exposed ssDNA during SSB sliding and/or partial dissociation (i.e., DNA unwrapping) and then grows. We further demonstrate that the recombination mediator protein pair, RecOR, accelerates both RecA nucleation and filament growth, and that introduction of RecF further stimulates RecA nucleation.

Protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (Prmt5) promotes gene expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ2 (PPARγ2) and its target genes during adipogenesis

Regulation of adipose tissue formation by adipogenic-regulatory proteins has long been a topic of interest given the ever-increasing health concerns of obesity and type 2 diabetes in the general population. Differentiation of precursor cells into adipocytes involves a complex network of cofactors that facilitate the functions of transcriptional regulators from the CCATT/enhancer binding protein, and the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) families. Many of these cofactors are enzymes that modulate the structure of chromatin by altering histone-DNA contacts in an ATP-dependent manner or by posttranslationally modifying the histone proteins. Here we report that inhibition of protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (Prmt5) expression in multiple cell culture models for adipogenesis prevented the activation of adipogenic genes. In contrast, overexpression of Prmt5 enhanced adipogenic gene expression and differentiation. Chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments indicated that Prmt5 binds to and dimethylates histones at adipogenic promoters. Furthermore, the presence of Prmt5 promoted the binding of ATP-dependent chromatin-remodeling enzymes and was required for the binding of PPARγ2 at PPARγ2-regulated promoters. The data indicate that Prmt5 acts as a coactivator for the activation of adipogenic gene expression and promotes adipogenic differentiation.

The BRG1 ATPase of chromatin remodeling complexes is involved in modulation of mesenchymal stem cell senescence through RB-P53 pathways

We focused our attention on brahma-related gene 1 (BRG1), the ATPase subunit of the SWItch/Sucrose NonFermentable (SWI/SNF) chromatin remodeling complex, and analyzed its role in mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) biology. We hypothesized that deviation from the correct concentration of these proteins, which act at the highest level of gene regulation, may be deleterious for cells. We wanted to know what would happen if a cell had to cope with altered regulation of gene expression, either by upregulation or downregulation of BRG1. We assumed that cells would try to restore homeostasis or, alternatively, that the event could trigger senescence/apoptosis phenomena. To this end, in MSCs, we silenced BRG1gene. Knockdown of BRG1 expression induced a significant increase in senescent cells and decrease in apoptotic cells. It is interesting that BRG1 downregulation also induced an increase in heterochromatin. At the molecular level, these phenomena were associated with activation of retinoblastoma-like protein 2 (RB2)/P130- and P53-related pathways. Senescence was accompanied by reduced expression of some stemness-related genes. This is consistent with our previous research, which showed that BRG1 upregulation by ectopic expression also induced senescence processes. Together, these data suggest that BRG1 belongs to a class of genes whose expression is tightly regulated; hence, subtle alterations in BRG1 activity seem to negatively affect mechanisms regulating chromatin status and, in turn, impair cellular physiology.

Partial silencing of methyl cytosine protein binding 2 (MECP2) in mesenchymal stem cells induces senescence with an increase in damaged DNA

DNA methylation is an epigenetic modification that occurs almost exclusively on CpG dinucleotides. MECP2 is a member of a family of proteins that preferentially bind to methylated CpGs. We analyzed the contribution of MECP2 to the physiology of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Partial silencing of MECP2 in human MSCs induced a significant reduction of S-phase cells, along with an increase in G(1) cells. These changes were accompanied by a reduction of apoptosis, the triggering of senescence, a decrease in telomerase activity, and the down-regulation of genes involved in maintaining stem cell properties. Senescence appeared to rely on impairment of DNA damage repair and seemed to occur through RB- and P53-related pathways. The effects of MECP2 silencing could be related to the modification of the DNA methylation status. Our results indicate that the silencing of MECP2 induces an increase in methylated cytosines in the genome. Nevertheless, MECP2 partial silencing did not change the methylation of promoters, whose expression is affected by MECP2 down-regulation.

Age-related changes of p75 neurotrophin receptor-positive adipose-derived stem cells

BACKGROUND

The existence of multipotent stem cells in subcutaneous adipose tissue has been reported. We previously confirmed that p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR; CD271)-positive cells in subcutaneous adipose tissue possessed multipotency, although changes of the characteristics in p75NTR-positive adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) with aging remain unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of aging on p75NTR-positive ASCs.

METHODS

The number of p75NTR-positive ASCs in subcutaneous adipose tissue of ICR mice aged 3-24 weeks was analyzed by immunostaining and flow cytometry. Subsequently, the cells were isolated and their ability to attach to the cell culture dish, proliferation rate (doubling time) and the expression of senescence-associated beta-galactosidase (SA-beta gal), a cellular senescence marker, were assessed. Age-related changes in the differentiation potential of p75NTR-positive cells in adipogenic, osteogenic, chondrogenic and myogenic lineage were also investigated.

RESULTS

The number of ASCs per unit of tissue weight in adipose tissue and the attachment rate of isolated cells decreased with aging. No difference in the cell proliferation rate and the percentage of SA-beta gal-positive cells was detected. Although the efficacy of differentiation into adipogenic and osteogenic lineages slightly decreased with aging, the differentiation potential into chondrogenic and myogenic lineages was not changed.

CONCLUSION

The number of ASCs per unit of tissue weight decreased in aged mice. However, the cells possessed proliferation and differentiation potentials almost equal to those of young mice even though the differentiation potentials showed a tendency of decrease. These results raise the possibility that stem cell functions, self-renewal and multipotency, are maintained regardless of aging.

The SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling subunit BRG1 is a critical regulator of p53 necessary for proliferation of malignant cells

The tumor suppressor p53 preserves genome integrity by inducing transcription of genes controlling growth arrest or apoptosis. Transcriptional activation involves nucleosomal perturbation by chromatin remodeling enzymes. Mammalian SWI/SNF remodeling complexes incorporate either the Brahma-related gene 1 (BRG1) or Brahma (Brm) as the ATPase subunit. The observation that tumor cell lines harboring wild-type p53 specifically maintain expression of BRG1 and that BRG1 complexes with p53 prompted us to examine the role of BRG1 in regulation of p53. Remarkably, RNAi depletion of BRG1, but not Brm, led to the activation of endogenous wild-type p53 and cell senescence. We found a proline-rich region unique to BRG1 was required for binding to the histone acetyl transferase protein, CBP, as well as to p53. Ectopic expression of a proline-rich region deletion mutant BRG1 that is defective for CBP binding inhibited p53 destabilization. Importantly, RNAi knockdown of BRG1 and CBP reduced p53 poly-ubiquitination in vivo. In support of p53 inactivation by the combined activities of BRG1 and CBP, we show that DNA damage signals promoted disassociation of BRG1 from CBP, thereby allowing p53 accumulation. Our data demonstrate a novel function of the evolutionarily conserved chromatin remodeling subunit BRG1, which cooperates with CBP to constrain p53 activity and permit cancer cell proliferation.

Epigenetic programming via histone methylation at WRKY53 controls leaf senescence in Arabidopsis thaliana

Leaf senescence, the final step of leaf development, involves extensive reprogramming of gene expression. Here, we show that these processes include discrete changes of epigenetic indexing, as well as global alterations in chromatin organization. During leaf senescence, the interphase nuclei show a decondensation of chromocenter heterochromatin, and changes in the nuclear distribution of the H3K4me2, H3K4me3, and the H3K27me2 and H3K27me3 histone modification marks that index active and inactive chromatin, respectively. Locus-specific epigenetic indexing was studied at the WRKY53 key regulator of leaf senescence. During senescence, when the locus becomes activated, H3K4me2 and H3K4me3 are significantly increased at the 5' end and at coding regions. Impairment of these processes is observed in plants overexpressing the SUVH2 histone methyltransferase, which causes ectopic heterochromatization. In these plants the transcriptional initiation of WRKY53 and of the senescence-associated genes SIRK, SAG101, ANAC083, SAG12 and SAG24 is inhibited, resulting in a delay of leaf senescence. In SUVH2 overexpression plants, significant levels of H3K27me2 and H3K27me3 are detected at the 5'-end region of WRKY53, resulting in its transcriptional repression. Furthermore, SUVH2 overexpression inhibits senescence-associated global changes in chromatin organization. Our data suggest that complex epigenetic processes control the senescence-specific gene expression pattern.

The chromatin remodelling factor BRG1 is a novel binding partner of the tumor suppressor p16INK4a

Background

CDKN2A/p16^INK4a is frequently altered in human cancers and it is the most important melanoma susceptibility gene identified to date. p16^INK4a inhibits pRb phosphorylation and induces cell cycle arrest, which is considered its main tumour suppressor function. Nevertheless, additional activities may contribute to the tumour suppressor role of p16^INK4a and could help explain its specific association with melanoma predisposition. To identify such functions we conducted a yeast-two-hybrid screen for novel p16^INK4a binding partners.

Results

We now report that p16^INK4a interacts with the chromatin remodelling factor BRG1. We investigated the cooperative roles of p16^INK4a and BRG1 using a panel of cell lines and a melanoma cell model with inducible p16^INK4a expression and BRG1 silencing. We found evidence that BRG1 is not required for p16^INK4a-induced cell cycle inhibition and propose that the p16^INK4a-BRG1 complex regulates BRG1 chromatin remodelling activity. Importantly, we found frequent loss of BRG1 expression in primary and metastatic melanomas, implicating this novel p16^INK4a binding partner as an important tumour suppressor in melanoma.

Conclusion

This data adds to the increasing evidence implicating the SWI/SNF chromatin remodelling complex in tumour development and the association of p16^INK4a with chromatin remodelling highlights potentially new functions that may be important in melanoma predisposition and chemoresistance.

Chapter 5. Nuclear actin-related proteins in epigenetic control

The nuclear actin-related proteins (ARPs) share overall structure and low-level sequence homology with conventional actin. They are indispensable subunits of macromolecular machines that control chromatin remodeling and modification leading to dynamic changes in DNA structure, transcription, and DNA repair. Cellular, genetic, and biochemical studies suggest that the nuclear ARPs are essential to the epigenetic control of the cell cycle and cell proliferation in all eukaryotes, while in plants and animals they also exert epigenetic controls over most stages of multicellular development including organ initiation, the switch to reproductive development, and senescence and programmed cell death. A theme emerging from plants and animals is that in addition to their role in controlling the general compaction of DNA and gene silencing, isoforms of nuclear ARP-containing chromatin complexes have evolved to exert dynamic epigenetic control over gene expression and different phases of multicellular development. Herein, we explore this theme by examining nuclear ARP phylogeny, activities of ARP-containing chromatin remodeling complexes that lead to epigenetic control, expanding developmental roles assigned to several animal and plant ARP-containing complexes, the evidence that thousands of ARP complex isoforms may have evolved in concert with multicellular development, and ARPs in human disease.

Controversial issue: is it safe to employ mesenchymal stem cells in cell-based therapies?

The prospective clinical use of multipotent mesenchymal stromal stem cells (MSC) holds enormous promise for the treatment of a large number of degenerative and age-related diseases. However, the challenges and risks for cell-based therapies are multifaceted. The risks for patients receiving stem cells, which have been expanded in vitro in the presence of xenogenic compounds, can hardly be anticipated and methods for the culture and manipulation of "safe" MSC ex vivo are being investigated. During in vitro expansion, stem cells experience a long replicative history and are thus subject to damage from intracellular and extracellular influences. While murine MSC are prone to cellular transformation in culture, human MSC do not transform. One reason for this striking difference is that during long-term culture, human MSC finally become replicatively senescent. In consequence, this greatly restricts their proliferation and differentiation efficiency. It however also limits the yield of sufficient numbers of cells needed for therapy. Another issue is to eliminate contamination of expanding cells with serum-bound pathogenic agents in order to reduce the risks for infection. A recent technical advancement, which applies human serum platelet lysates as an alternative source for growth factors and essential supplements, allows the unimpaired proliferation of MSC in the absence of animal sera. Here, we present an update regarding cellular senescence of MSC and recent insights concerning potential risks associated with their clinical use.

Changes of the Functional Capacity of Mesenchymal Stem Cells due to Aging or Age-Associated Disease - Implications for Clinical Applications and Donor Recruitment

SUMMARY: In contrast to stem cells of embryonic origin, autologous tissue-specific stem cells are easier to introduce into the clinical practice. In this context, molecular and cellular changes, which alter tissue-specific stem cell properties with age, are of particular interest since elderly patients represent the main target group for cell-based therapies. The clinical use of mesenchymal stem cells is an emerging field, especially because this stem cell type appears to be amenable for the treatment of a large number of diseases, such as non-healing bone defects and fractures, inflammatory relief during arthritis, and the repair of suspensory ligament tears. More than that, mesenchymal stem cells provoke effective immune suppression in the context of graft-versus-host disease. Here, we present a comprehensive overview of the recent findings with special attention to age-related changes of mesenchymal stem cell properties and the consequential impact on tissue regeneration and repair, together with the current perception concerning their therapeutic application potential as well as the challenges associated with their clinical use.

BAF250B-associated SWI/SNF chromatin-remodeling complex is required to maintain undifferentiated mouse embryonic stem cells

Whether SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complexes play roles in embryonic stem (ES) cells remains unknown. Here we show that SWI/SNF complexes are present in mouse ES cells, and their composition is dynamically regulated upon induction of ES cell differentiation. For example, the SWI/SNF purified from undifferentiated ES cells contains a high level of BAF155 and a low level of BAF170 (both of which are homologs of yeast SWI3 protein), whereas that from differentiated cells contains nearly equal amounts of both. Moreover, the levels of BAF250A and BAF250B decrease during the differentiation of ES cells, whereas that of BRM increases. The altered expression of SWI/SNF components hinted that these complexes could play roles in ES cell maintenance or differentiation. We therefore generated ES cells with biallelic inactivation of BAF250B and found that these cells display a reduced proliferation rate and an abnormal cell cycle. Importantly, these cells are deficient in the self-renewal capacity of undifferentiated ES cells and exhibit certain phenotypes of differentiated cells, including reduced expression of several pluripotency-related genes and increased expression of some differentiation-related genes. These data suggest that the BAF250B-associated SWI/SNF is essential for mouse ES cells to maintain their normal proliferation and pluripotency. The work presented here underscores the importance of SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complexes in pluripotent stem cells.

Chromatin remodelling and actin organisation

Chromatin remodelling is a prerequisite for nuclear processes, and cells have several different ways of remodelling the chromatin structure. The ATP-dependent chromatin remodelling complexes are large multiprotein complexes that use ATP to change DNA-histone contacts. These complexes are classified into 4 sub-families depending on the central ATPase. The switch mating type/sucrose non-fermenting (SWI/SNF) complexes are mainly involved in transcriptional regulation, and this means that they are involved in many processes, such as the formation of actin filaments in the cytoplasm. SWI/SNF complexes are involved in the regulation of genes expressing cell adhesion proteins and extracellular matrix proteins. Actin is also present in the nucleus, affecting transcription, RNA processing and export. In addition, actin and actin-related proteins are subunits of SWI/SNF complexes and the INO80-containing complexes, another subfamily of ATP-dependent chromatin remodelling complexes. Not all functions of the actin and actin-related proteins in the complexes are yet clear: it is known that they play important roles in maintaining the stability of the proteins, possibly by bridging subunits and recruiting the complexes to chromatin.