Figure 6
Coupling interplay mechanism during CII-induced HCC apoptotic remodeling: arbiters of cell survival or demise.
This study has elucidated that a tight coupling interplay underlies CII-induced apoptotic remodeling. Firstly, ionizing radiation stimuli triggers activation of the apoptotic signaling pathway (Bcl-2 family proteins). Secondly, in the committed and effector phase, the molecular executioner caspase-3 becomes completely activated, committing the cells to evoke apoptotic changes. This phase is also accompanied by alterations in cellular mechanical properties, and the mechanical signals participate with the signals of specific cellular events to generate positive coupling feedback to modulate the apoptotic response process. The budding process of ABs is a remarkable example of this control by mechanical factors. Thirdly, a tight coupling interplay mechanism directs the cell toward survival or demise (Fig. 6). In the final stages, the ABs are rapidly phagocytosed by macrophages and parenchymal cells and degraded. Apoptosis completes the cycle.
