St. Jude researchers find key step in programmed cell death (news release)

St. Jude researchers find key step in programmed cell death (news release): "Apoptosis rids the body of faulty or unneeded cells. However, molecular malfunctions that trigger apoptosis may cause some diseases, including Parkinson’s disease. Understanding the biochemical interactions that control the extent of programmed cell death could lead to new treatments."

As discussed previously, in the lack of oxygen doesn't seem to kill cells, but reintroduction of oxygen after a period of oxygen deficit leads to mass apoptosis -- programmed cell death. This study shows progress in understanding how apoptosis works and how cells stave off cell death.