Determining the Function of INI-1 in the Swi/Snf Complex-Contributing Research to Find a Cure for AT/RT Cancer

Abstract

The Swi/Snf complex is also known as the chromatin-remodeling machine. The Swi/Snf complex plays a key role in the regulation of eukaryotic gene expression. The image below is a representation of the Swi/Snf complex. Each of the ten proteins plays an important part in the complex, due to their strong correlation to several cancer types. We currently are focusing on the INI-1 protein of the complex, which has shown to be correlated to the development of the atypical teratoid/ rhabdoid tumor (AT/RT). AT/RT is a highly malignant central nervous system tumor. Genetic studies have shown that deletion or mutation of the INI1 gene occurs in AT/RT lesions. Our lab is working to understand the biochemistry of the tumor suppressor INI-1 and its role within the Swi/Snf complex. If we are able to determine the function of INI-1 in the Swi/Snf complex, we will be better able to determine treatment for patients with this condition. The goal of my research is to determine which of the ten proteins that are part of the Swi/Snf complex directly interacts with INI-1.