Bcl-xL (B-cell lymphoma-extra large)

Bcl-xL, or B-cell lymphoma-extra large, is a protein that plays a vital role in regulating cell survival. It belongs to a group of proteins known as anti-apoptotic factors, which help prevent programmed cell death (apoptosis). By doing so, Bcl-xL promotes the survival of cells, particularly in the immune system. While this is essential for normal cell function, its overactivity is linked to certain cancers, as it can allow malignant cells to evade death. Understanding Bcl-xL is important in developing cancer treatments that can target or inhibit its function to promote cancer cell death.