Bcl-2 activators are compounds that influence a family of proteins called B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2). These proteins are crucial for regulating apoptosis, or programmed cell death, which is essential for maintaining cellular health. Bcl-2 activators enhance the pro-survival functions of these proteins, helping cells resist apoptotic signals. By preventing unwanted cell death, they have potential applications in treating diseases where cell survival plays a significant role, such as neurodegenerative disorders and some types of cancer.
