Apoptosis signaling proteins

Apoptosis signaling proteins" is a nonspecific term encompassing various molecular components involved in the regulation and execution of programmed cell death. These proteins include the Bcl-2 family (pro- and anti-apoptotic regulators of mitochondrial membrane permeabilization), caspases (initiator and executioner proteases), death receptors (e.g., Fas and TNF receptors), IAP proteins (inhibitors of apoptosis), and other regulatory factors such as p53. The balance among these molecules determines a cell’s fate to survive or undergo orderly self-destruction. Dysregulation of apoptosis signaling proteins is implicated in many human diseases, most notably cancer, where too little apoptosis permits unchecked cell proliferation, and neurodegeneration, where excessive apoptosis leads to loss of vital cells[1][2][3][4][6][7].

Other names

Pro-apoptotic proteinsanti-apoptotic proteinsapoptosis regulatorsapoptosis effectors

Inhibition of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family members; Activation or mimicking of pro-apoptotic proteins; Caspase activation or inhibition; Death receptor activation (e.g., by agonists)