Cytochrome c is important in both physiological and pathological contexts: - Cancer: The dysregulation of cytochrome c release and apoptotic pathways is often observed in cancer cells, leading to uncontrolled cell proliferation. - Neurodegenerative Diseases: Aberrant cytochrome c release and apoptosis are implicated in diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, where excessive cell death contributes to disease progression. - Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury: During ischemic events, such as heart attacks or strokes, cells may undergo apoptosis due to mitochondrial damage and cytochrome c release.
