Apoptosis regulatory pathway (None)

The apoptosis regulatory pathway comprises molecular mechanisms governing programmed cell death, including the activation of death receptors (extrinsic pathway) and intracellular protein networks (intrinsic/mitochondrial pathway). Key proteins include death receptors (e.g., Fas, TRAIL-R1/DR4, TRAIL-R2/DR5), the Bcl-2 family (both pro- and anti-apoptotic members), and caspases (initiator and executioner enzymes). Therapeutic targeting of elements within the pathway—including Bcl-2, death receptors, and caspase activation—has become standard in cancer therapy and investigated in other diseases. Drugs commonly act by mimicking pro-apoptotic signals, antagonizing anti-apoptotic proteins, or restoring p53 function. Dysregulation of apoptosis leads to many pathological states, most notably cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, and is therefore a major focus for drug development.

Other names

Programmed cell death pathwayApoptosis signaling pathwayCell death pathwayApoptotic pathway

Death receptor agonism triggers extrinsic apoptosis. BH3 mimetics antagonize anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family members, activating intrinsic apoptosis. Caspase activation for cell execution. p53 restoration upregulates apoptotic molecules. IAP inhibitors block inhibitors of caspase activation. DNA damage drugs upregulate pro-apoptotic receptor expression.