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Modified Annexin V/Propidium Iodide Apoptosis Assay For Accurate Assessment of Cell Death
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Modified Annexin V/Propidium Iodide Apoptosis Assay For Accurate Assessment of Cell Death

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IAPs and Cell Death

John Silke1, James Vince2

  • 1The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia. silke@wehi.edu.au.

Current Topics in Microbiology and Immunology
|February 17, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Inhibitors of Apoptosis Proteins (IAPs) regulate multiple cell death types beyond apoptosis, including necroptosis and pyroptosis. Understanding IAPs offers new strategies for cancer therapy and inflammation control.

Area of Science:

  • Cell Biology
  • Immunology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Inhibitors of Apoptosis Proteins (IAPs) were initially identified for their role in preventing programmed cell death (apoptosis).
  • Emerging evidence indicates IAPs also regulate other cell death pathways, such as necroptosis and pyroptosis.
  • Their involvement in cell death processes, particularly in cancer, has spurred interest in developing IAP inhibitors.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To discuss the multifaceted roles of IAPs in apoptosis, necroptosis, and pyroptosis.
  • To explore the connection between IAP-mediated cell death and inflammatory responses.
  • To highlight how IAP antagonists, developed for cancer therapy, have advanced our understanding of these processes.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and synthesis of existing research on IAPs.
  • Analysis of IAP involvement across different programmed cell death paradigms.
  • Examination of the link between IAPs, cell death, and inflammation.

Main Results:

  • IAPs are key regulators not only of apoptosis but also of necroptosis and pyroptosis.
  • These cell death pathways are intrinsically linked to the modulation of inflammation.
  • IAPs play a direct role in regulating inflammatory processes.
  • IAP antagonist drugs have been instrumental in uncovering these broader functions.

Conclusions:

  • IAPs are crucial regulators of diverse cell death pathways, extending beyond apoptosis.
  • The interplay between IAPs, cell death, and inflammation is significant.
  • Targeting IAPs holds therapeutic potential for cancer and inflammatory diseases.

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