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A dimeric protein (second mitochondria-derived activator of caspases/direct IAP-binding protein with low isoelectric point) released from mitochondria in response to apoptotic stimuli that can remove the constraint exercised by IAPs (inhibitor of apoptosis proteins). It seems that binding of diablo to IAP sterically hinders binding and inhibition of effector caspases. Smac/diablo export from mitochondria into the cytosol is provoked by cytotoxic drugs and DNA damage, as well as by ligation of the CD95 death receptor, and is a caspase-dependent response. Release can be reduced by overexpression of Bcl-2.
From: diablo/smac in A Dictionary of Biomedicine »
Subjects: Medicine and Health.
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