Why are Chromatin Remodeling Genes Important in Cancer?
In cancer, chromatin remodeling genes play a critical role in the epigenetic regulation of gene expression. Mutations or dysregulations in these genes can lead to aberrant activation or repression of oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. This can promote uncontrolled cell proliferation, resistance to apoptosis, and other hallmarks of cancer. For example, mutations in the SWI/SNF complex components, such as SMARCB1 and ARID1A, have been implicated in various cancers including ovarian and renal carcinomas.