Apoptosis and some of its medical implications

The following phases of apoptosis were proposed: decisive, executive and degradation. At least two checkpoints are recognized in the process of apoptosis: the p53 and Bcl-2/Bax protein family checkpoint and the protease - caspase and serine protease checkpoint. Signals to apoptosis from outside of the cell including Fas and Fas ligand interaction and sphingomyelin cycle were presented. Cellular morphological events in apoptosis: DNA chain breaks, changes in cell membrane and mitochondrial membranes were discussed. Some medical problems of cardiology in which apoptosis plays an important role were presented. The cancer treatment results depending on apoptosis of cancer cells were discussed as well.