Bcl-2

Bcl-2 is a protein that helps regulate cell survival by preventing cell death. It is part of a family of proteins that control the balance between cell survival and apoptosis (programmed cell death). Bcl-2 acts as an anti-apoptotic factor, meaning it promotes cell longevity by inhibiting processes that lead to cell death. This function is vital for normal tissue maintenance, but when Bcl-2 is overproduced or malfunctioning, it can contribute to unchecked cell growth, such as in cancers. Thus, Bcl-2 plays a key role in maintaining cell health and balancing cell life and death.