FLICE-inhibitory protein (FLIP)

FLICE-inhibitory protein (FLIP) is a key negative regulator of apoptosis, particularly the extrinsic pathway triggered by death receptors. It exists in multiple isoforms (c-FLIPL and c-FLIPS) and functions by interfering with the formation of the death-inducing signaling complex (DISC), preventing caspase-8 activation. c-FLIP overexpression is associated with resistance to apoptosis in cancer and other diseases, making it a potential therapeutic target. Viral homologues (v-FLIPs) are used by viruses to evade host immune responses.

Other names

Cellular FLICE-inhibitory proteinc-FLIPCASP8 and FADD-like apoptosis regulatorCFLARCASHCasperCLARPFLAMEI-FLICEMRITUsurpinv-FLIPs (viral homologues)

Inhibits apoptosis by interfering with the formation of the death-inducing signaling complex (DISC), preventing recruitment and activation of initiator caspases (mainly caspase-8). Acts as a dominant-negative inhibitor by blocking downstream signaling events.