What is the Role of Cytochrome c in the Mitochondrial Pathway?
Cytochrome c is a critical component in the mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis. When released into the cytosol, it binds to Apaf-1 and ATP, forming the apoptosome. This complex activates caspase-9, which then activates downstream effector caspases, leading to apoptotic cell death. The release of cytochrome c is a vital step in the intrinsic pathway and is often a target for toxicological studies.
