Domain-specific insight into the recognition of BH3-death motifs by the pro-survival Bcl-2 protein

Single-molecule scale quantification reveals interactions underlying protein–protein interface: from forces to non-covalent bonds

“…Although the PPIs of BAX/Bcl-2 are considered as promising targets for tumour therapy, no studies have quantitatively measured the molecular force involved. Current knowledge of PPIs relies mainly on holistic studies, such as surface plasmon resonance (SPR), 15 isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), 16 while direct detailed evidence at the single molecule level is still lacking. This is because quantitative characterization of interface bound noncovalent bonds and accurate determination of the affinity is a challenging task.…”

Qibai Pingfei capsule induces apoptosis of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells in hypoxic rats by regulating PI3K/AKT/mitochondrial signaling pathway

“…Through homologous aggregation, Bax forms microporous channels on the outer membrane of mitochondria, increases its permeability and induces apoptosis. When factors that stimulate apoptosis are present, Bax expression increases and combines with Bcl-2 to weaken anti-Bax and other pro-apoptotic proteins to promote apoptosis [14]. Therefore, when apoptotic signals act on cells, the balance between pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic proteins is broken, and cells will go to apoptosis.…”