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Monitoring Dynamic Changes In Mitochondrial Calcium Levels During Apoptosis Using A Genetically Encoded Calcium Sensor
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Apoptosis regulation at the mitochondria membrane level

Shashank Dadsena1, Louise E King1, Ana J García-Sáez1

  • 1Institute for Genetics, CECAD Research Center, University of Cologne, Germany.

Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta. Biomembranes
|August 3, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (MOMP) is crucial for cell death. This review explores how Bcl-2 family proteins regulate Bax and Bak, key proteins controlling MOMP and the apoptotic pore formation.

Area of Science:

  • Cell Biology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (MOMP) is a critical step in apoptosis, initiating caspase activation and irreversible cell death.
  • The Bcl-2 protein family acts as a central regulator of apoptosis, orchestrating the mitochondrial pathway.
  • Effector proteins Bax and Bak permeabilize the mitochondrial outer membrane, leading to MOMP.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent advancements in understanding the molecular mechanisms governing Bax and Bak activity.
  • To elucidate the intricate regulation of the apoptotic pore formation at the mitochondrial membrane.

Main Methods:

  • This review synthesizes findings from recent experimental studies.
  • It focuses on the molecular interactions and regulatory networks involving Bcl-2 family proteins.

Main Results:

  • Recent progress has shed light on the complex regulation of Bax and Bak.
  • Understanding the precise molecular mechanisms controlling the apoptotic pore is still evolving.

Conclusions:

  • The Bcl-2 family's regulation of Bax/Bak activity is central to controlling MOMP.
  • Further research is needed to fully resolve the molecular mechanisms of apoptotic pore formation.
Keywords:
ApoptosisBCL-2 proteinsLipidsMOMPMembrane dynamicsProtein-protein interaction

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