Apoptosis-related signaling molecules

Apoptosis-related signaling molecules comprise a diverse group of proteins that propagate and regulate the cell death program. Central families include the caspases (executors), Bcl-2 family (regulators of mitochondrial integrity), inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (inhibit caspase action), and cell-surface death receptors (e.g., Fas/CD95, TNFR family). These molecules operate across intrinsic (mitochondrial) and extrinsic (receptor-mediated) signaling pathways, tightly controlling cellular suicide to maintain homeostasis, prevent cancer, mediate immune responses, and prevent developmental anomalies. The pathways are interconnected by key regulators such as FADD, SMAC/DIABLO, and various kinases (e.g., MAPK, JAK/STAT). Although individual family members often serve as drug targets or biomarkers for disease, the term "apoptosis-related signaling molecules" itself is a collective designation and does not identify a unique target[2][4][6][8][9].

Other names

Apoptotic signaling proteinscell death regulatorsapoptosis regulatory molecules

Inhibition of anti-apoptotic proteins (IAP, Bcl-2 family) Activation of death receptors (Fas, TNFR) Promotion/inhibition of caspase activity Modulation of signaling cascades (MAPK, JAK/STAT)