Overview

• Researchers used CRISPR-Cas9 screening of more than 20,000 genes to uncover MLF2 and RBM15 as critical regulators of chromatin remodeling.
• MLF2 and RBM15 act as gatekeepers that control chromatin accessibility and gene expression, safeguarding cellular identity and preventing aberrant activation linked to cancer and neurodevelopmental disorders.
• The findings, published in Nature Communications, reveal how these proteins integrate with the SWI/SNF complex to modulate chromatin dynamics.
• Targeting MLF2 and RBM15 may enable more selective and less toxic treatments by restoring proper chromatin architecture.
• Researchers will next evaluate whether inhibiting these proteins can kill tumor cells and are screening for molecules that correct chromatin dysfunctions.