BCL-2 family deregulation in colorectal cancer: potential for BH3 mimetics in therapy

Abstract

Apoptosis is a form of programmed cell death that is essential for tissue homeostasis. Deregulation of the balance between proliferation and apoptosis contributes to tumor initiation. Particularly in the colon where apoptosis is a crucial process in intestinal turnover, inhibition of apoptosis facilitates transformation and tumor progression. The BCL-2 family of proteins are key regulators of apoptosis and have been implicated in colorectal cancer (CRC) initiation, progression and resistance to therapy. In thi…