ATP-dependent chromatin remodelers

ATP-dependent chromatin remodelers are specialist proteins in our cells that help manage how tightly DNA is packed within chromosomes. DNA wraps around proteins called histones to form chromatin, which can be tightly or loosely organized. These remodelers use energy from ATP (a cellular energy molecule) to move or restructure the DNA and histones, making genes more or less accessible for reading. This process is crucial for regulating gene expression, allowing cells to respond to changes and control functions such as growth, repair, and differentiation. Essentially, they help ensure that the right genes are turned on or off at the right time.