Main Pro-Apoptotic Member of Bcl-2 Family Proteins – Bax

Programmed cell death (apoptosis) plays a vital role in the regulation of cellular homeostasis. Because of apoptosis fundamental importance, this process is highly regulated. One important set of factors involved in apoptosis regulation is the Bcl-2 family proteins. Bcl-2 family members form a complex regulatory network that controls cell survival and death in response to different physiological and pathological signals. This family includes both pro- and anti-apoptotic members, and Bax protein (Mol wt 21 kDa) is a major pro-apoptotic factor with multifunctional activity. This review summarizes new data about the main representative of Bcl-2 family – Bax, its structure and mechanism(s) by which this protein modulates apoptosis.