Greasing the path to BAX/BAK activation.

Hollville, Emilie; Martin, Seamus J · Cell · 2012

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

BAX/BAK activation leading to mitochondrial outer-membrane permeabilization is a key commitment point in apoptosis. Chipuk et al. now identify two sphingolipids as specific cofactors for BAX/BAK activation that lower the threshold for apoptosis-associated cytochrome c release. Association of mitochondria with other cellular membrane compartments is required for BAK/BAX exposure to these sphingolipids.