Apoptosis: target of cancer therapy.

Abstract

Recent knowledge on apoptosis has made it possible to devise novel approaches, which exploit this process to treat cancer. In this review, we discuss in detail approaches to induce tumor cell apoptosis, their mechanism of action, stage of development, and possible drawbacks. Finally, the obstacles yet to be overcome and the perspectives for potential clinical use of apoptosis-triggering approaches in cancer therapy in the future are assessed.