Evading apoptosis in cancer

Trends Cell Biol. 2013 Dec;23(12):620-33. doi: 10.1016/j.tcb.2013.07.006. Epub 2013 Aug 16.

Abstract

Carcinogenesis is a mechanistically complex and variable process with a plethora of underlying genetic causes. Cancer development comprises a multitude of steps that occur progressively starting with initial driver mutations leading to tumorigenesis and, ultimately, metastasis. During these transitions, cancer cells accumulate a series of genetic alterations that confer on the cells an unwarranted survival and proliferative advantage. During the course of development, however, cancer cells also encounter a physiologically ubiquitous cellular program that aims to eliminate damaged or abnormal cells: apoptosis. Thus, it is essential that cancer cells acquire instruments to circumvent programmed cell death. Here we discuss emerging evidence indicating how cancer cells adopt various strategies to override apoptosis, including amplifying the antiapoptotic machinery, downregulating the proapoptotic program, or both.

Keywords: BH3; MOMP; caspase; phosphorylation; ubiquitination.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Apoptosis Regulatory Proteins / metabolism
  • Apoptosis*
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
  • Humans
  • Models, Biological
  • Neoplasm Proteins / metabolism
  • Neoplasms / genetics
  • Neoplasms / pathology*

Substances

  • Apoptosis Regulatory Proteins
  • Neoplasm Proteins