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Updated: Feb 26, 2026

Examining BCL-2 Family Function with Large Unilamellar Vesicles
Published on: October 5, 2012
Progress in targeting the BCL-2 family of proteins
Thomas P Garner1, Andrea Lopez1, Denis E Reyna1
1Department of Biochemistry, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein Cancer Center, Wilf Family Cardiovascular Research Institute, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA.
Abstract:
The network of protein-protein interactions among the BCL-2 protein family plays a critical role in regulating cellular commitment to mitochondrial apoptosis. Anti-apoptotic BCL-2 proteins are considered promising targets for drug discovery and exciting clinical progress has stimulated intense investigations in the broader family. Here, we discuss recent developments in small molecules targeting anti-apoptotic proteins and alternative approaches to targeting BCL-2 family interactions. These studies advance our understanding of the role of BCL-2 family proteins in physiology and disease, providing unique tools for dissecting these functions. The BCL-2 family of proteins is a prime example of targeting protein-protein interactions and further chemical biology approaches will increase opportunities for novel targeted therapies in cancer, autoimmune and aging-associated diseases.
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