Apoptosis Inducing Factor

Apoptosis Inducing Factor (AIF) is a protein found in the mitochondria, the energy powerhouses of cells. When a cell needs to undergo controlled death (apoptosis), AIF is released into the cell's nucleus, where it helps trigger DNA fragmentation and dismantling of the cell. This process is essential for maintaining healthy tissues by removing damaged or unwanted cells. Unlike other pathways of apoptosis that involve proteins called caspases, AIF induces cell death through a caspase-independent mechanism, playing a crucial role in cellular development and response to stress.