UNIGE Researchers Identify Key Proteins in Chromatin Regulation

Scientists at the University of Geneva (UNIGE) have made significant strides in understanding the molecular mechanisms behind gene expression through their recent discovery of two proteins that regulate chromatin remodeling, a process essential for proper DNA function. Published in the journal *Nature Communications* on June 24, 2025, this research has the potential to pave the way for more effective and less toxic treatments for various diseases, including cancers and neurodevelopmental disorders.

Cells rely on precise gene expression to function correctly, determining which genetic instructions are activated at any given time. When this process goes awry, it can lead to serious health issues, such as skin cancer and neurological disorders like autism. Simon Braun, Assistant Professor in the Department of Genetic Medicine and Development at UNIGE, emphasized the importance of their findings: "If inappropriate regions of chromatin are exposed, parts of the genome that promote abnormal cell growth can become active, potentially leading to skin cancer."

Chromatin, a complex of proteins that packages DNA within the cell nucleus, plays a crucial role in determining the accessibility of genetic material. When DNA is tightly packed, it becomes unreadable and inactive. Thus, other proteins are required to remodel chromatin, allowing access to specific DNA sequences at the right time and place. This epigenetic regulation is vital for maintaining the identity and function of cells.

In their study, Braun and his team identified two key proteins, MLF2 and RBM15, that are crucial for regulating chromatin remodeling. The identification was made possible through the use of the CRISPR-Cas9 screening method, a powerful gene-editing tool that allows researchers to modify or inactivate genes systematically. Over 20,000 genes were analyzed, leading to the discovery of MLF2 and RBM15 as critical modulators of chromatin dynamics.

Hanna Schwämmle, a doctoral student in Braun's lab and the first author of the study, remarked, "Our findings suggest that these two modulators could become promising therapeutic targets for diseases linked to disrupted chromatin remodeling — and potentially offer treatments that are less toxic than current options."

The implications of this research extend beyond basic science; they hold significant promise for therapeutic development. The next steps for the UNIGE research team will involve assessing the efficacy of targeting MLF2 and RBM15 in cancer cells, determining whether this approach can effectively kill cancer cells or merely slow their growth. Braun concluded, "The goal is to identify the most effective molecules to correct chromatin remodeling dysfunctions."

This discovery aligns with a broader trend in cancer research, as scientists seek to develop targeted therapies that minimize side effects compared to traditional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation. As the understanding of chromatin regulation deepens, the potential for innovative treatment strategies continues to expand.

As researchers worldwide focus on the molecular intricacies of gene expression, the findings from UNIGE contribute to a growing body of literature that underscores the importance of chromatin dynamics in human health. With the ongoing advancements in gene-editing technologies and molecular biology, the future of personalized medicine appears increasingly promising, offering hope for more effective interventions in the management of complex diseases.