Given its critical role in cancer, inducing apoptosis in cancer cells is a major goal of many therapeutic strategies. Some approaches include:
Small molecule inhibitors: Drugs that target anti-apoptotic proteins like Bcl-2 inhibitors (e.g., venetoclax) can restore the apoptotic process in cancer cells. Restoration of p53 function: Therapies aimed at restoring or mimicking the function of p53 can help trigger apoptosis in tumor cells. Death receptor agonists: Compounds that activate death receptors on the cell surface can initiate the extrinsic apoptotic pathway. Combination therapies: Combining apoptosis-inducing agents with other treatments like chemotherapy or radiation can enhance the overall effectiveness of cancer therapy.
