BRD1

BRD1, or bromodomain-containing protein 1, is a human protein encoded by the BRD1 gene. It is a nuclear protein that functions as a chromatin reader, using its bromodomain to recognize acetylated lysine residues on histone tails. Through this interaction, BRD1 is thought to influence chromatin structure and transcription by associating with histone acetyltransferase complexes and other chromatin-modifying factors. BRD1 is believed to act as a scaffold that helps recruit or stabilize components at specific genomic loci, contributing to the regulation of gene expression.

The BRD1 protein contains a conserved bromodomain essential for histone binding, and other regions that mediate protein–protein interactions. Its precise partners and the full spectrum of genomic targets remain areas of active investigation. BRD1 is broadly expressed across tissues, with data suggesting relatively higher expression in certain contexts such as neural tissue, consistent with roles in development and brain function.

Clinical and genetic associations have been investigated in BRD1. Some studies have reported links between BRD1 variants and psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, though findings are not uniformly replicated across populations. Rare variants or copy-number changes in BRD1 have also been described in individuals with neurodevelopmental phenotypes, highlighting a potential role in brain development.

In research, BRD1 is part of the broader family of bromodomain-containing proteins that read histone acetylation marks and help regulate chromatin dynamics and gene expression. Ongoing studies aim to clarify BRD1’s partners, targets, and contributions to development and disease.