SNF5 is a component of the yeast SWI/SNF complex, which is an ATP-dependent nucleosome-remodelling complex that regulates the transcription of a subset of yeast genes. SNF5 is a key component of all SWI/SNF-class complexes characterised so far [1]. This family consists of the conserved region of SNF5, including a direct repeat motif. SNF5 is essential for the assembly promoter targeting and chromatin remodelling activity of the SWI-SNF complex [2]. SNF5 is also known as SMARCB1, for SWI/SNF-related, matrix-associated, actin-dependent regulator of chromatin, subfamily b, member 1, and also INI1 for integrase interactor 1. Loss-of function mutations in SNF5 are thought to contribute to oncogenesis in malignant rhabdoid tumours (MRTs) [3].

1: Identification and analysis of the Arabidopsis thaliana BSH gene, a member of the SNF5 gene family. Brzeski J, Podstolski W, Olczak K, Jerzmanowski A; Nucleic Acids Res 1999;27:2393-2399. PMID:10325430

2: Essential roles of Snf5p in Snf-Swi chromatin remodeling in vivo. Geng F, Cao Y, Laurent BC; Mol Cell Biol 2001;21:4311-4320. PMID:11390659

3: Truncating mutations of hSNF5/INI1 in aggressive paediatric cancer. Versteege I, Sevenet N, Lange J, Rousseau-Merck MF, Ambros P, Handgretinger R, Aurias A, Delattre O; Nature 1998;394:203-206. PMID:9671307