Caspase-Dependent Apoptosis Pathway (Mitochondrial) (Mitochondrial Apoptosis Pathway)

The caspase-dependent apoptosis pathway, also known as the intrinsic or mitochondrial pathway, is a central mechanism by which cells undergo programmed cell death in response to internal stress signals. This pathway is triggered by intracellular stresses leading to mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (MOMP) and the release of cytochrome c, which initiates the apoptosome formation and caspase activation cascade ultimately leading to cellular demolition. It is tightly regulated by the balance between pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins and plays a critical role in development, tissue homeostasis, and disease.

Other names

Intrinsic Apoptosis PathwayMitochondrial-Mediated ApoptosisCaspase-Mediated Apoptosis (Mitochondrial)

Modulation of Bcl-2 family protein interactions, direct caspase activation/inhibition, induction of mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (MOMP).