Apoptosis Pathway (Caspase-Dependent)

The caspase-dependent apoptosis pathway is a tightly regulated cellular process responsible for programmed cell death. It is essential for development, tissue homeostasis, and the elimination of damaged or potentially harmful cells. This pathway relies on a family of cysteine proteases known as caspases, which orchestrate the controlled dismantling of cellular components via either the extrinsic (death receptor-mediated) or intrinsic (mitochondrial-mediated) pathway. Dysregulation of this pathway is implicated in various diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and immune deficiencies.

Other names

Caspase-Dependent ApoptosisExtrinsic Apoptosis PathwayIntrinsic Apoptosis PathwayDeath Receptor PathwayMitochondrial Apoptosis PathwayProgrammed Cell Death (Caspase-Dependent)

Modulation of caspase activity, disruption of protein-protein interactions within the pathway (e.g., Bcl-2 family proteins), induction of death receptor signaling