The apoptosome is a multi-protein complex that plays a crucial role in the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis by activating caspase-9, which subsequently activates executioner caspases leading to cell death. It is formed in response to cytochrome c release from mitochondria and involves the assembly of Apaf-1, cytochrome c, and dATP/ATP in the cytosol.

Apoptosome

apoptosome

multi-protein complex

intrinsic pathway of apoptosis

caspase-9

executioner caspases

Cell death is a fundamental biological process that can occur through different mechanisms such as apoptosis, necrosis, and autophagy, each playing distinct roles in development, homeostasis, and disease. Understanding these pathways is crucial for developing treatments for diseases where cell death is dysregulated, such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.

cell death

Cytochrome c release from the mitochondria into the cytosol is a crucial step in the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis, leading to the activation of caspases and programmed cell death. This process is tightly regulated by the Bcl-2 family of proteins and is often triggered by cellular stress or damage signals.

cytochrome c release

Mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell, responsible for producing the energy currency of the cell, ATP, through the process of oxidative phosphorylation. They also play crucial roles in other cellular processes, including signaling, cellular differentiation, and apoptosis, making them integral to maintaining cellular health and function.

mitochondria

assembly of Apaf-1

dATP

ATP, or adenosine triphosphate, is the primary energy carrier in all living organisms, acting as a molecular currency that drives various biological processes. It stores energy in its high-energy phosphate bonds, which is released upon hydrolysis to power cellular activities.

Cytosol is the intracellular fluid that surrounds organelles within a cell, playing a crucial role in cellular processes such as signal transduction, glycolysis, and intracellular transport. It is composed primarily of water, dissolved ions, small molecules, and large water-soluble molecules like proteins, providing a medium for molecular interactions and reactions essential for cell function.

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