Mechanisms of action of the BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax in multiple myeloma: a literature review

Qiang Cao; Qiang Cao; Xinyan Wu; Qi Zhang; Junling Gong; Yuquan Chen; Yanwei You; Jun Shen; Yi Qiang; Guangzhu Cao

doi:10.3389/fphar.2023.1291920

Frontiers in Pharmacology (Nov 2023)

Mechanisms of action of the BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax in multiple myeloma: a literature review

Qiang Cao,
Qiang Cao,
Xinyan Wu,
Qi Zhang,
Junling Gong,
Yuquan Chen,
Yanwei You,
Jun Shen,
Yi Qiang,
Guangzhu Cao

Affiliations

Qiang Cao: Department of Earth Sciences, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
Qiang Cao: Department of Pharmacy, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
Xinyan Wu: College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
Qi Zhang: Undergraduate Department, Taishan University, Taian, China
Junling Gong: School of Public Health, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
Yuquan Chen: Institute of Medical Information/Library, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
Yanwei You: Division of Sports Science & Physical Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
Jun Shen: Department of Pharmacy, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
Yi Qiang: Department of Earth Sciences, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
Guangzhu Cao: Department of Earth Sciences, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2023.1291920
Journal volume & issue: Vol. 14

Abstract

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Abnormal cellular apoptosis plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of Multiple Myeloma (MM). Over the years, BCL-2, a crucial anti-apoptotic protein, has garnered significant attention in MM therapeutic research. Venetoclax (VTC), a small-molecule targeted agent, effectively inhibits BCL-2, promoting the programmed death of cancerous cells. While VTC has been employed to treat various hematological malignancies, its particular efficacy in MM has showcased its potential for broader clinical applications. In this review, we delve into the intricacies of how VTC modulates apoptosis in MM cells by targeting BCL-2 and the overarching influence of the BCL-2 protein family in MM apoptosis regulation. Our findings highlight the nuanced interplay between VTC, BCL-2, and MM, offering insights that may pave the way for optimizing therapeutic strategies. Through this comprehensive analysis, we aim to lay a solid groundwork for future explorations into VTC’s clinical applications and the profound effects of BCL-2 on cellular apoptosis.

Published in Frontiers in Pharmacology

ISSN: 1663-9812 (Online)
Publisher: Frontiers Media S.A.
Country of publisher: Switzerland
LCC subjects: Medicine: Therapeutics. Pharmacology
Website: http://journal.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology

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