VDAC2 and the BCL-2 family of proteins

Abstract

The BCL-2 protein family govern whether a cell dies or survives by controlling mitochondrial apoptosis. As dysregulation of mitochondrial apoptosis is a common feature of cancer cells, targeting protein-protein interactions within the BCL-2 protein family is a key strategy to seize control of apoptosis and provide favourable outcomes for cancer patients. Non-BCL-2 family proteins are emerging as novel regulators of apoptosis and are potential drug targets. Voltage dependent anion channel 2 (VDAC2) can regulate apoptosis. However, it is unclear how this occurs at the molecular level, with conflicting evidence in the literature for its role in regulating the BCL-2 effector proteins, BAK and BA..