The Role Of The Swi/Snf Complex In The Tumor Immune Microenvironment

Abstract Remodeling of the chromatin is a regulatory mechanism in order to close or open the chromatin and mediate gene regulation. The SWI/SNF complex is evolutionary conserved and uses the energy from ATP to remodel the chromatin. This complex is mutated in about twenty percent of all human cancers. The subunits of the complex are known to have a tumor suppressor function, however this understanding can be debated. Studies have shown that in the event that one of the members is mutated, residual members of the complex can have aberrant activity more towards an oncogenic phenotype. The tumor suppressor or the oncogenic potential of this complex is context dependent and needs a deeper understanding. In the setting of a tumor, recent research has shown that, inhibition of the subunits of this complex can enhance the ability of the immune system to kill the tumor owing to their oncogenic potential. Here we discuss and analyze the various BAF, PBAF and the core catalytic subunits of the complex. Using both in-silico and wet lab approaches, we relate the functioning of the subunits to affect the tumor infiltrating immune cell subsets. Using data sets, we correlate the subunits with immune based therapy response. While each of the subunits play diverse roles, together we highlight the importance of this complex to shape the tumor immune landscape.