The bcl-2 homology domain 3 (BH3)-only proteins bim and bid are functionally active and restrained by anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins in healthy liver

Abstract

Background: A fine balance between the anti- and pro-apoptotic multidomain Bcl-2 family proteins controls hepatocyte apoptosis in the healthy liver. Results: Disruption of the BH3-only proteins Bim and Bid prevents spontaneous hepatocyte apoptosis in the absence of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins. Conclusion: Hepatocyte integrity is maintained by the well orchestrated Bcl-2 network. Significance: We demonstrated the novel involvement of BH3-only proteins in the healthy Bcl-2 network of the liver. © 2013 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.