Targeting BCL-2 regulated apoptosis in cancer.

ABSTRACT: The ability of a cell to undergo mitochondrial apoptosis is governed by pro- and anti-apoptotic members of the BCL-2 protein family. The equilibrium of pro- versus anti-apoptotic BCL-2 proteins ensures appropriate regulation of programmed cell death during development and maintains organismal health. When unbalanced, the BCL-2 family can act as a barrier to apoptosis and facilitate tumour development and resistance to cancer therapy. Here we discuss the BCL-2 family, their deregulation in cancer and recent pharmaceutical developments to target specific members of this family as cancer therapy.

SUBMITTER: Campbell KJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5990650 | biostudies-literature | 2018 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature