The Bcl-2 family consists of a group of proteins that regulate apoptosis, or programmed cell death. This family includes both pro-apoptotic proteins, which promote cell death, and anti-apoptotic proteins, which prevent it. Key members include Bcl-2, which inhibits apoptosis, and Bax, which encourages it. The balance between these proteins is crucial for maintaining healthy cell function and preventing diseases like cancer. These proteins interact with each other to control the mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis. When pro-apoptotic proteins are activated, they can lead to the release of cytochrome c from the mitochondria, triggering a cascade that results in cell death. Understanding the Bcl-2 family is important for developing therapies for conditions where apoptosis is dysregulated.