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Role of mitochondrial membrane permeabilization in apoptosis and cancer

Oncogene volume 23, pages 2850–2860 (2004)Cite this article

Abstract

The release of proteins from the intermembrane space of mitochondria is one of the pivotal events in the apoptotic process, which can lead to the activation of caspases and the ultimate demise of the cell. How these proteins exit the mitochondria is still a matter of intense debate. Here, we discuss the possible mechanisms behind the release of apoptogenic proteins, the ways in which cancer cells subvert these mechanisms, and the therapeutic regimens that aim to promote the timely loss of integrity of the outer mitochondrial membrane.

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We thank Drs TH Ward and J Cummings for critical reading of the manuscript.

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  1. Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology Group, The Paterson Institute for Cancer Research, Wilmslow Road, Manchester, M20 4BX, UK

    Judith Henry-Mowatt & Caroline Dive

  2. Department of Cell Biology, University of Geneva, Quai Ernest Ansermet 30, Geneva, 4, 1211, Switzerland

    Jean-Claude Martinou & Dominic James

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Henry-Mowatt, J., Dive, C., Martinou, JC. et al. Role of mitochondrial membrane permeabilization in apoptosis and cancer. Oncogene 23, 2850–2860 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.onc.1207534

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