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Paradoxical roles of caspase-3 in regulating cell survival, proliferation, and tumorigenesis

Ebrahim Eskandari1,2, Connie J Eaves1,2,3

  • 1Terry Fox Laboratory, British Columbia Cancer Agency, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

The Journal of Cell Biology
|May 13, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Caspase-3, a protein crucial for apoptosis, also regulates cell growth and tissue maintenance. Its diverse functions evolved from ancestral caspase-like genes in yeast to meet complex multicellular organism needs.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Cell Biology
  • Evolutionary Biology

Background:

  • Caspase-3 is a key protein in apoptosis execution.
  • Emerging evidence highlights caspase-3's roles beyond cell death.
  • Yeast possess ancestral caspase-like genes, suggesting evolutionary divergence.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the dichotomous roles of caspase-3.
  • To explore the evolution of caspase-3 functions.
  • To discuss the relevance of caspase-3 in normal and malignant cell biology.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of existing studies on caspase-3.
  • Analysis of evolutionary origins of caspase-like genes.
  • Synthesis of current knowledge on caspase-3 functions.

Main Results:

  • Caspase-3 executes apoptosis but also regulates cell growth and homeostasis.
  • Evolutionary analysis suggests caspase-3 acquired new functions in multicellular organisms.
  • These dual roles are critical for both normal and malignant cell biology.

Conclusions:

  • Caspase-3 exhibits a dual role in cell death and cell regulation.
  • Understanding caspase-3 evolution provides insights into its complex functions.
  • Caspase-3 is a significant target for understanding and treating diseases.

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