Apoptosis in the Hematopoietic System

Since the first description of apoptosis by Kerr, Wyllie and Currie three decades ago, the field has expanded immensely, and recent research findings have revealed a role for dysregulated apoptosis in many hematological disorders. This series of review articles serves to apprise the hematologist of the basic mechanisms of apoptosis as well as to point out its relevance in clinical conditions. The collection begins with a discussion of the mitochondria and their central role in apoptosis. Leading experts describe how Granzyme B triggers cell death and how Bcl-2 family proteins regulate apoptosis in the lymphoid system. The unique features of apoptosis in PMN and in platelet biogenesis are explained in detail, while subsequent papers cover its role in pathological processes such as myelodysplastic syndrome and myeloid leukemia. Finally, new therapeutic approaches based on the knowledge of apoptotic mechanisms are outlined. Comprehensive and up to date, this compilation will serve as an invaluable reference for both basic and clinical hematologists.