A time to kill: targeting apoptosis in cancer

Int J Mol Sci. 2015 Jan 28;16(2):2942-55. doi: 10.3390/ijms16022942.

Abstract

The process of apoptosis is essential for maintaining the physiologic balance between cell death and cell growth. This complex process is executed by two major pathways that participate in activating an executioner mechanism leading to chromatin disintegration and nuclear fragmentation. Dysregulation of these pathways often contributes to cancer development and resistance to cancer therapy. Here, we review the most recent discoveries in apoptosis regulation and possible mechanisms for resensitizing tumor cells to therapy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / pharmacology
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Apoptosis Regulatory Proteins / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Apoptosis Regulatory Proteins / metabolism
  • Apoptosis* / drug effects
  • Caspases / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • Receptors, Tumor Necrosis Factor / metabolism
  • TNF-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand / metabolism
  • TNF-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand / pharmacology
  • TNF-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand / therapeutic use
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / metabolism
  • fas Receptor / metabolism

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Apoptosis Regulatory Proteins
  • Receptors, Tumor Necrosis Factor
  • TNF-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha
  • fas Receptor
  • Caspases