BAK1
GeneName
BAK1
Summary
BAK1, also known as Bak or ELG, is a 23 kDa pro-apoptotic protein belonging to the Bcl-2 family. It is primarily localised in the mitochondrial outer membrane and is also found in the endoplasmic reticulum and cytosol. BAK1 plays a critical role in the intrinsic apoptotic pathway, facilitating mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilisation and the release of cytochrome c, which is essential for the activation of caspases and the execution of apoptosis. Additionally, BAK1 is involved in various biological processes such as B cell homeostasis, blood vessel morphogenesis, and cellular responses to stressors like UV and mechanical stimuli.
Importance
BAK1 is relevant to: - Understanding apoptosis and its dysregulation in cancer, as it is a key player in the intrinsic apoptotic pathway - Investigating therapeutic targets for diseases associated with aberrant apoptosis, including neurodegenerative diseases and autoimmune disorders - Exploring its role in organ regeneration and tissue homeostasis, which may have implications for regenerative medicine - Studying its involvement in calcium ion transport and mitochondrial function, linking it to metabolic disorders and cellular stress responses
Top Products
For researchers investigating BAK1, we highly recommend the top-selling recombinant monoclonal antibody, Anti-Bak antibody [Y164] (ab32371). This antibody has been validated in knockout models, ensuring its reliability in various applications, including Western blotting (WB), immunohistochemistry (IHC), immunoprecipitation (IP), and flow cytometry (FC). With 69 citations, it has garnered significant attention in the research community, reflecting its trusted performance in BAK1 studies. This product is an excellent choice for those seeking consistent and effective detection of BAK1 in their experiments.
Abcam Product Citation Summary
The data indicates that BAK1 is being studied in the context of melanoma and apoptosis. Specifically, the use of Abcam antibody ab32371 in both immunohistochemistry and Western blotting highlights its relevance in understanding the mechanisms of progression-free survival in metastatic melanoma and the effects of HPV15 and TNF-α on apoptosis.
Abcam Product Citation Table
Domain
Intact BH3 motif is required by BIK, BID, BAK, BAD and BAX for their pro-apoptotic activity and for their interaction with anti-apoptotic members of the Bcl-2 family.
Function
Plays a role in the mitochondrial apoptotic process. Upon arrival of cell death signals, promotes mitochondrial outer membrane (MOM) permeabilization by oligomerizing to form pores within the MOM. This releases apoptogenic factors into the cytosol, including cytochrome c, promoting the activation of caspase 9 which in turn processes and activates the effector caspases.
Sequence Similarities
Belongs to the Bcl-2 family.
Tissue Specificity
Expressed in a wide variety of tissues, with highest levels in the heart and skeletal muscle.
Cellular localization
- Mitochondrion outer membrane
- Single-pass membrane protein
Alternative names
BAK, BCL2L7, CDN1, BAK1, Bcl-2 homologous antagonist/killer, Apoptosis regulator BAK, Bcl-2-like protein 7, Bcl2-L-7