Mi-2 is an essential component of chromatin remodelling complexes involved in regulating gene expression and chromatin structure. It is both a DNA helicase and ATPase enzyme that is a component part of several protein complexes, including the NuRD (Nucleosome remodelling and Deacetylase) complex and CHRAC (Chromatin Accessibility Complex). Mi-2 is firstly an ATPase enzyme, harnessing the energy from ATP hydrolysis to drive changes in chromatin structure. It uses the energy from ATP to disrupt histone-DNA interactions, reposition nucleosomes, and alter chromatin accessibility. This process allows for the modulation of gene expression and the regulation of various DNA processes. For example, Mi-2 is involved in both nucleosome sliding and ejection, which are crucial for regulating access to DNA sequences by transcription factors and other chromatin-binding proteins. Mi-2-containing complexes can move nucleosomes along the DNA strand, making specific DNA regions more accessible for transcription or other genomic processes. In some cases, Mi-2 complexes can completely eject nucleosomes, exposing the underlying DNA for other DNA processes. Mi-2 is a core component of the NuRD complex, a complex which integrates chromatin remodelling and histone deacetylation activities. Within the NuRD complex, Mi-2 collaborates with other subunits, such as HDACs (Histone Deacetylases), to remove acetyl groups from histone tails. This deacetylation of histones results in a more closed and repressive chromatin state. Mi-2 is also also a component of the CHRAC complex, which is involved in nucleosome assembly and disassembly processes. CHRAC, with Mi-2 at its core, plays a role in regulating nucleosome positioning and chromatin assembly. It facilitates the exchange of histones with histone variants and can reorganize nucleosomes to expose specific DNA regions. Mi-2 also contributes to the regulation of gene expression by controlling chromatin accessibility and nucleosome positioning at gene promoters and enhancers. Mi-2 complexes can be recruited to specific gene loci by transcription factors and other regulatory proteins. Once there, it uses its chromatin remodelling activity to facilitate or inhibit transcription initiation by making the chromatin accessible to the transcriptional machinery. Mi-2 is crucial for development and cell differentiation, as it participates in the regulation of genes responsible for determining cell fate. During development, Mi-2 complexes help establish and maintain the chromatin state required for specific cell lineages. They are involved in both the activation and repression of genes that dictate cell fate decisions. For example, Mi-2 is involved in gene repression during early embryonic development. It helps maintain pluripotent stem cells in an undifferentiated state by silencing genes that are involved in cell fate determination and differentiation. For example, Oct4 is a transcription factor critical for maintaining pluripotency in embryonic stem cells. Mi-2, as part of the NuRD complex, can repress Oct4 expression, preventing premature differentiation. Finally, Mi-2 plays a role in DNA repair and genome stability by facilitating access to damaged DNA sites. Mi-2 complexes can reposition nucleosomes or remove them temporarily, allowing repair factors to access DNA lesions. This function is critical for maintaining genomic integrity and preventing the accumulation of mutations. We provide a wide product catalogue of research tools for studying Mi-2, including CHD4 antibodies. Explore our full Mi-2 product range below and discover more, for less.