
BH3-only proteins
BH3-only proteins are a specialized group of proteins that help regulate cell death, a natural process to remove damaged or unnecessary cells. They act as sensors responding to cellular stress or damage by activating a pathway called apoptosis. By binding to and inhibiting other proteins that prevent cell death, BH3-only proteins initiate the process, ensuring damaged cells are safely eliminated. They are crucial for maintaining healthy tissue balance and preventing diseases like cancer, where cell death regulation is disrupted. Overall, BH3-only proteins serve as key regulators in controlling when cells should die to keep the body healthy.