The role of mitochondria in apoptosis induction in Caenorhabditis elegans: more than just innocent bystanders?

摘要

Bcl-2 proteins are key regulators of apoptosis in animals as diverse as Caenorhabditis elegans and mammals. This commentary is written in honor of Stan Korsmeyer, whose name we automatically associate with Bcl-2 proteins. Stan Korsmeyer's work was instrumental in the identification and functional characterization of mammalian Bcl-2, the founding member of the family of Bcl-2 proteins, as well as of Bax-like and BH3-only proteins. In addition, important concepts of apoptosis regulation, for example the realization that pro- and antiapoptotic Bcl-2 proteins antagonize each others' functions, emerged from his studies.6 This pioneering work forms the foundation of our current understanding of Bcl-2 proteins and, as discussed below, continues to provide inspiration for those seeking to expand our knowledge regarding this important protein family.