BCL-2 Iso Forms

BCL-2 Iso Forms

The folds of the two Bcl-2 iso forms, Isoform 1 and Isoform 2, are similar. However, differences in the ability of these isoforms to bind to the BAD and BAK proteins, as well as differences in the structural topology and electrostatic potential of the binding groove, suggest that the two isoforms have different antiapoptotic activities.

BCL-2 Functions

BCL-2 (BCL2 Antibody) is found in the outer membrane of mitochondria, where it aids cellular survival by blocking pro-apoptotic proteins. The BCL-2 family of pro-apoptotic proteins, such as Bax and Bak, normally act on the mitochondrial membrane to induce permeabilization and the release of cytochrome C and reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are crucial signals in the apoptosis cascade. These pro-apoptotic proteins are triggered by BH3-only proteins, while BCL-2 and its related BCL-Xl activity inhibit them.

BCL-2 is being investigated for additional non-canonical roles. BCL-2 is known to regulate mitochondrial dynamics and is involved in mitochondrial fusion and fission. Furthermore, BCL-2 and BCL-Xl are known to be involved in controlling metabolic activity and insulin secretion in pancreatic beta-cells, with inhibition of BCL-2/Xl showing increased metabolic activity but also additional ROS production; this suggests it has a protective metabolic effect in high demand conditions.