Apoptosis Induction

Apoptosis induction refers to the initiation of programmed cell death, a tightly regulated process essential for development, tissue homeostasis, and defense against disease. There are two primary molecular pathways: the intrinsic (mitochondrial) and extrinsic (death receptor) pathways. Both converge on activation of effector/executioner caspases that orchestrate cellular breakdown. Regulation occurs through BCL-2 family proteins, decoy receptors, and c-FLIP. Induction of apoptosis serves functions such as removing damaged cells, regulation during development, and defense against viral infection. Failure or dysregulation contributes to diseases such as cancer, autoimmune disorders or degenerative diseases. Many anticancer therapies aim to induce apoptosis selectively in tumor cells.

Other names

Programmed cell death initiation

Activating proapoptotic molecules/caspases directly or inhibiting their natural inhibitors