Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 26, 2026

Identification of Intracellular Signaling Events Induced in Viable Cells by Interaction with Neighboring Cells Undergoing Apoptotic Cell Death
Published on: December 27, 2016
Phosphorylation of the pro-apoptotic protein Bim in lymphocytes is associated with protection from apoptosis
Robert J Seward1, Priska D von Haller, Ruedi Aebersold
1Department of Pathology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Jaharis 906, 150 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02111, USA.
Abstract:
Bim is a pro-apoptotic member of the Bcl-2 protein family. Bim has three isoforms, EL, L, and S, of which the EL form is the least cytotoxic. We show here that Bim is serine phosphorylated in lymphocytes, predominantly on the EL form. Withdrawal of IL-2 from IL-2-dependent T lymphocytes or culture of thymocytes leads to reduced Bim phosphorylation and apoptosis induction. This decrease in Bim phosphorylation occurs when most cells in culture are still viable, indicating that reduction of Bim phosphorylation may be an early event in apoptosis signaling of lymphocytes.
Related Concept Videos
The Intrinsic Apoptotic Pathway
The Extrinsic Apoptotic Pathway
Cellular Injury V: Apoptosis and Autophagy
PI3K/mTOR/AKT Signaling Pathway
Phagocytosis of Apoptotic Cells
Normal cells contain receptors that prevent them from being recognized by phagocytes.
Abnormal Proliferation

