Induction of Apoptosis via Caspase Activation Pathway

The induction of apoptosis via the caspase activation pathway is a tightly regulated process of programmed cell death executed by caspases. It involves two main signaling routes: the intrinsic (mitochondrial) and extrinsic (death receptor-mediated) pathways. Initiator caspases activate executioner caspases, leading to the dismantling of the cell through the cleavage of various cellular substrates. Regulation is achieved by anti-apoptotic proteins like BCL-2 and inhibitors like cFLIP and XIAP. The pathway culminates in phagocytosis without inflammation.

Other names

Caspase-mediated apoptosisProgrammed cell death via caspase pathwayIntrinsic apoptosis pathwayExtrinsic apoptosis pathwayApoptotic signaling cascade

Modulation of caspase activation, inhibition of anti-apoptotic proteins, activation of death receptors, induction of mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (MOMP)