Peter E. Czabotar and Guillaume Lessene Pages 3132 - 3148 ( 17 )
The mitochondrion provides the stage for the interplay of molecular interactions that regulate apoptosis via the intrinsic pathway. The release of apoptogenic factors from this compartment constitutes a critical juncture in this apoptotic pathway. Regulation of the integrity of the outer mitochondrial membrane (OMM) is the task of the Bcl-2 family of proteins. A network of interactions between the various subgroups of the family decides the apoptotic fate of a cell and, as such, an imbalance within this network can lead to a variety of disease states. In particular, over-expression of pro-survival Bcl-2 family proteins is a hallmark of many cancers. Here we discuss recent advances in targeting the Bcl-2 family with both peptides and small molecules.
Apoptosis,Bcl-2
, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute for Medical Research. 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.