How Can Direct Apoptosis be Targeted for Cancer Therapy?
Targeting direct apoptosis in cancer therapy involves restoring the apoptotic pathways that are often disrupted in cancer cells. This can be achieved through various approaches:
BH3 mimetics: These are small molecules that mimic the action of pro-apoptotic BH3-only proteins, neutralizing anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family members. Death receptor agonists: These agents activate the extrinsic pathway by binding to death receptors and inducing apoptosis. Caspase activation: Direct activation of caspases can initiate the apoptotic cascade, leading to cancer cell death. Gene therapy: Introducing or restoring pro-apoptotic genes in cancer cells can trigger apoptosis.
