These changes are the result of convergence of biochemical pathways on cellular substrates, in which a major element is activation of caspases. The overexpression of these proteins induces apoptosis. During induction of apoptosis, caspase proteases are sequentially activated and thereafter cleave several cellular proteins essential for cell growth. The substrates of this reaction are widely dispersed in the nucleus, cytoplasm and cytoskeleton.
Caspase activation is the end result of physiological or pathological stimuli.
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