Caspase-9 is a key initiator caspase in the intrinsic apoptotic pathway, activated by the formation of the apoptosome complex in response to cellular stress such as DNA damage or mitochondrial dysfunction. It is synthesized as an inactive zymogen and becomes active upon recruitment by the apoptosome, which includes cytochrome c and apoptotic protease activating factor-1 (Apaf-1). Once activated, Caspase-9 cleaves and activates downstream effector caspases like Caspase-3, -6, and -7, ultimately leading to apoptosis. Caspase-9 is essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis and preventing the development of diseases such as cancer. Its dysregulation has been implicated in conditions like neurodegenerative disorders and tumorigenesis, making it a potential target for therapeutic interventions.
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