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Messengers of cell death: apoptotic signaling in health and disease

Davide Rossi1, Gianluca Gaidano

  • 1Hematology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences & IRCAD, Amedeo Avogadro University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara, Italy.

Haematologica
|February 27, 2003
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Apoptosis, a programmed cell death, is crucial for tissue balance. Understanding apoptosis signaling may offer new insights into lymphoma development and potential molecular therapies.

Area of Science:

  • Cellular Biology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Apoptosis is a genetically regulated cell death mechanism vital for tissue homeostasis.
  • Dysregulation of apoptosis signaling is implicated in the pathogenesis of germinal center-derived lymphomas.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the molecular basis of apoptosis signaling.
  • To identify potential therapeutic targets for lymphoma based on apoptosis pathways.

Main Methods:

  • The study describes the extrinsic apoptosis pathway, initiated by death receptors and ligands, forming the death-inducing signaling complex (DISC).
  • It also details the intrinsic apoptosis pathway, triggered by intracellular sensors, leading to apoptosome formation.
  • Both pathways converge on caspase activation, the executioners of apoptosis.

Main Results:

  • The extrinsic pathway involves death receptors (e.g., TNFR1, Fas, DRs) and ligands (e.g., TNF-a, FasL, TRAIL).
  • The intrinsic pathway involves intracellular sensors leading to apoptosome formation.
  • Both pathways activate caspases, crucial for cell death.

Conclusions:

  • Alterations in apoptosis machinery in tumors offer potential targets for novel lymphoma therapies.
  • Targeting specific apoptosis pathways may lead to effective molecular treatments for lymphoma.

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