Review

Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology 9, 532-542 (July 2008) | doi:10.1038/nrm2434

Cytochrome c: functions beyond respiration

Yong-Ling P. Ow1, Douglas R. Green2, Zhenyue Hao1 & Tak W. Mak1  About the authors

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Cytochrome c is primarily known for its function in the mitochondria as a key participant in the life-supporting function of ATP synthesis. However, when a cell receives an apoptotic stimulus, cytochrome c is released into the cytosol and triggers programmed cell death through apoptosis. The release of cytochrome c and cytochrome-c-mediated apoptosis are controlled by multiple layers of regulation, the most prominent players being members of the B-cell lymphoma protein-2 (BCL2) family. As well as its role in canonical intrinsic apoptosis, cytochrome c amplifies signals that are generated by other apoptotic pathways and participates in certain non-apoptotic functions.

Author affiliations

  1. The Campbell Family Institute for Breast Cancer Research, Ontario Cancer Institute, Toronto, Ontario M5G 2C1, Canada.
    Email: ow@post.harvard.edu; Email: zyhao@uhnres.utoronto.ca; Email: tmak@uhnresearch.ca
  2. Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, USA.
    Email: Douglas.Green@STJUDE.ORG

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