BCL2-related protein A1 (BFL-1)

BCL2-related protein A1 (BFL-1) is a member of the anti-apoptotic BCL-2 protein family. It shares four BH domains that allow interaction with multiple pro-apoptotic partners and is primarily regulated by NF-κB and various inflammatory cytokines. BFL-1 is upregulated in several cancers and contributes to tumor cell survival and resistance to chemotherapy. Its function includes blocking mitochondrial cytochrome c release and caspase activation, enabling cell survival during immune activation and inflammation. BFL-1's rapid turnover and non-essential status for normal system homeostasis make it a promising therapeutic target for cancer, though no approved drugs directly target it yet. Its activity, expression, and splice variants are considered for biomarker development, especially within hematologic malignancies.

Other names

BCL2A1A1 (mouse homolog)BCL2-related gene expressed in fetal liverBFL-1S (splice variant)

Anti-apoptotic effect: binds and neutralizes pro-apoptotic proteins (e.g., BIM, PUMA, NOXA, BIK, BID, HRK, BAK, BAX) via BH3-domain interactions. Reduces release of cytochrome c from mitochondria, inhibiting caspase activation. Acts downstream of NF-κB signaling, upregulated in response to inflammatory stimuli.