Bcl-2 family

The Bcl-2 family is a group of proteins that play a crucial role in regulating cell life and death, particularly in the process of apoptosis, or programmed cell death. Some members, like Bcl-2 itself, help prevent cells from dying, while others promote cell death. This balance is vital for maintaining healthy tissues, as it ensures damaged or unwanted cells are eliminated, preventing issues like cancer. By understanding how these proteins work, scientists can develop therapies aimed at diseases where cell death regulation goes awry, such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.