Open AccessMolecular interplay between ion channels and the regulation of apoptosis
Author(s) -
Mona A Razik,
John A. Cidlowski
Publication year - 2002
Publication title -
biological research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.127
H-Index - 55
eISSN - 0717-6287
pISSN - 0716-9760
DOI - 10.4067/s0716-97602002000200011
Subject(s) - apoptosis , intracellular , microbiology and biotechnology , homeostasis , ion channel , programmed cell death , process (computing) , biology , chemistry , genetics , computer science , receptor , operating system
Apoptosis is the programmed and deliberate destruction of specific cells. This process occurs during normal development and maintains cellular homeostasis. Disruption or malfunction of apoptosis is implicated in diseases like cancer, AIDS as well as neurodegenerative disorders. The movement of monovalent ions appears to set the stage for the induction of the self-destruction machinery by creating an intracellular environment that favors activation and coordinated execution of the apoptotic program. Understanding the components and steps involved in this intricate process can further our insight to diseases and reveal new approaches for therapeutic treatment.