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[Apoptosis and its importance in the development and therapy of tumors (review)]
Z Kleibl1, M Raisová, J Novotný
1II. ústav lékarské chemie a biochemie 1. lékarské fakulty Univerzity Karlovy, U nemocnice 5, 128 53 Praha 2, Czech Republic. zdekleje@lf1.cuni.cz
Abstract:
This review focuses on apoptosis and its regulation as a tool of principal control mechanism of tissue homeostasis. Defects in regulation of apoptosis contribute to a various pathological processes, including tumor development, chronic inflammatory diseases, immunological disorders and many others. Apoptosis influences sensitivity to radiotherapy and chemotherapy of tumours. Microscopically the apoptosis is characterized by morphological changes, which result in the formation of apoptotic bodies. Apoptosis is an active process, which require synthesis and activation of a set of the specific cellular proteins. Among them, the key role belongs to the family of cystein proteases--caspases activated either through the death receptors or via activation steps starting with the release of a mitochondrial cytochrome c. Activation of caspases promotes the activation of downstream effectors leading to the cleavage of target cellular proteins and genomic DNA. The members of Bcl-2 family and p53 are- the others important proteins influencing the regulation of apoptosis. Enhancing of our knowledge about apoptosis and its mechanisms highly improves the rationale for diagnostics and therapy in oncology.
Insights
This review explores apoptosis, programmed cell death, and its regulation in maintaining tissue balance. Understanding apoptosis mechanisms is crucial for improving cancer diagnostics and therapies.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Context:
- Apoptosis is a fundamental biological process crucial for tissue homeostasis.
- Its dysregulation is implicated in numerous pathologies, including cancer and inflammatory diseases.
- Understanding apoptosis is vital for predicting and enhancing cancer treatment responses.
Purpose:
- To review the intricate mechanisms regulating apoptosis.
- To highlight the role of key proteins like caspases, Bcl-2 family, and p53 in apoptosis.
- To underscore the significance of apoptosis in oncological diagnostics and therapeutics.
Summary:
- Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is characterized by distinct morphological changes and requires the activation of specific proteins, notably caspases.
- Caspase activation can be triggered extrinsically via death receptors or intrinsically through mitochondrial pathways involving cytochrome c.
- Proteins such as the Bcl-2 family and p53 play critical roles in modulating apoptotic pathways.
Impact:
- Enhanced understanding of apoptosis mechanisms provides a stronger basis for developing novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in oncology.
- Insights into apoptosis regulation can lead to improved patient outcomes in cancer treatment.
- This review consolidates current knowledge on apoptosis, facilitating further research and clinical applications.