Mitochondrial Membrane Permeabilization (MMP)

MMP -> cytochrome c release. This is point of no return in apoptotic pathway. Mitochondrial contents flow to cytosol to activate apoptotic signalling. Intrinsic pathway can be activated independently by intracellular stress. Chemotherapeutic agents, irradiation or growth factor withdrawal activate BAD -> MMP. Severe ER stress (Ca2+ ion release) cause MMP. Cytochrome c: is critical to PCD signalling, also essential for oxidative phosphorylation, Normally found in associated with inner membrane of mitochondria. Released from the inner mitochondrial membrane by oxidation of cardiolipin.