Apoptosis regulator Bcl-2 protein (Bcl-2)

Apoptosis regulator Bcl-2 protein is a key member of the Bcl-2 family, functioning as a central inhibitor of programmed cell death (apoptosis) by blocking mitochondrial cytochrome c release and downstream caspase activation[1][3][5][6]. Localized on the outer mitochondrial membrane, it maintains membrane integrity, interacts with both anti- and pro-apoptotic partners, and is crucial in cell fate decisions, especially in hematopoietic and neuronal cells[1][3][5]. Deregulation, often through overexpression or gene translocation (notably t(14;18)), contributes to oncogenesis, particularly in follicular lymphoma and other B-cell malignancies[1][3]. Bcl-2 inhibition is a validated therapeutic strategy in oncology, but modulation of apoptosis risk can present safety challenges due to effects on normal cell survival[5][6].

Other names

B-cell lymphoma 2BCL2Bcl2Bcl2a1 (mouse ortholog, less commonly in humans)

BH3-mimetic drugs inhibit Bcl-2 by binding its BH3-binding groove, disrupting its interaction with pro-apoptotic proteins, inducing apoptosis in malignant cells