Antiapoptotic proteins. The bcl-2 and inhibitor of apoptosis protein families.

The balance between pro- and antiapoptotic proteins can determine cellular fate. In this regard, the Bcl-2 and IAP protein families have evolved as highly conserved regulators of cell death. A further testament to their critical roles in maintaining balance between cell life and death may be the increasing implication of Bcl-2 and TAP proteins in the pathologies of human diseases. Although much has been learned about these families of proteins, future studies of the Bcl-2 and IAP families are sure to hold more exciting discoveries and will continue to reveal new strategies for combating human diseases.