The SWI-SNF complex: a chromatin remodeling machine?

The SWI-SNF complex plays a key role in the regulation of eukaryotic gene expression. Genetic studies in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae suggest that one role for the complex is to antagonize chromatin-mediated repression of transcription. Recent biochemical studies indicate that S. cerevisiae and putative human SWI-SNF complexes use the energy of ATP hydrolysis to disrupt nucleosome structure.