Bcl2

BCL2 (BCL is the acronym for "B-cell lymphoma") is a protein that plays an important role in the regulation of apoptosis (see also BCL6). Some proteins of the BCL family exert their function by regulating the release of cytochrome C from the mitochondrion. This results in apoptosis.

Mutations in BCL family genes can have serious consequences. Therefore, this protein family is also considered a human proto-oncogene (see Oncogenes below).

"Overactivation" of BCL2 leads to proliferation of the tissue and thus to tumor formation. Thus, the chromosomal translocation t(14;18) (q32;q21) in follicular lymphoma leads to overexpression of BCL2.

The detection of BCL2 also plays a role in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma of the leg type (see lymphoma, cutaneous B-cell lymphoma, large B-cell lymphoma of the leg).

1. Hallermann C et al (2004) Molecular cytogenetic analysis of chromosomal breakpoints in the IGH, MYC, BCL6 and MALT1-gene loci in primary cutaneous B-cell-lymphomas.J Invest Dermatol 123: 213-219