Caspases are enzymes with protease activity. Despite being known for more than three decades, caspase investigation still yields surprising and fascinating information. Initially associated with cell death and inflammation, their functions have gradually been revealed to extend beyond, targeting pathways such as cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation. These processes are also associated with disease mechanisms, positioning caspases as potential targets for numerous pathologies including inflammatory, neurological, metabolic, or oncological conditions. While in vitro studies play a crucial role in elucidating molecular pathways, they lack the context of the body's complexity. Therefore, laboratory animals are an indispensable part of successfully understanding and applying caspase networks. This paper aims to summarize and discuss recent knowledge, understanding, and challenges in caspase knock-out mice.
Keyphrases
- cell death
- induced apoptosis
- cell proliferation
- oxidative stress
- cell cycle arrest
- mouse model
- healthcare
- signaling pathway
- rectal cancer
- prostate cancer
- endoplasmic reticulum stress
- cancer therapy
- adipose tissue
- risk assessment
- insulin resistance
- brain injury
- case control
- human health
- health information
- high fat diet induced
- minimally invasive