ABSTRACT

Apoptosis controls normal cell numbers during development and disease. In colorectal cancer, the apoptotic process plays a vital role in transforming a benign adenoma into invasive colorectal adenocarcinoma. Dysregulation of apoptotic proteins within the colorectal cancer cells make them resistant to the cytotoxic eff ects of modern chemotherapeutic agents. Th is chapter discusses the role of apoptosis in colon carcinogenesis and how various molecules that critically regulate apoptosis, may mediate chemo-resistance in colorectal cancer. Th e chapter also reviews the literature on current treatment strategies designed to target apoptotic proteins and thereby improve response rates to chemotherapy in colorectal cancer.