Molecular regulation of cell-cycle progression and apoptosis in mammalian cells: Implications for biotechnology

Regulation of the cell cycle and of programmed cell death (apoptosis) is es sential for mammalian development and homeostasis, Furthermore, this regula tion is fundamental to successful cell culture technology acid tissue engin eering. Therefore the molecular networks which regulate these processes are critical targets for drug development, gene therapy, and metabolic enginee ring. This review summarizes the genes, proteins, and interactions presentl y known to control apoptosis and cell-cycle progression. Knowledge of the n etworks summarized here and access to the component genes and proteins have already been applied successfully to guide research and development in bio process technology and medical treatment.