Differential Requirement for Caspase 9 in Apoptotic Pathways In Vivo

Abstract

Mutation of Caspase 9 (Casp9) results in embryonic lethality and defective brain development associated with decreased apoptosis. Casp9 −/− embryonic stem cells and embryonic fibroblasts are resistant to several apoptotic stimuli, including UV and γ irradiation. Casp9−/− thymocytes are also resistant to dexamethasone- and γ irradiation–induced apoptosis, but are surprisingly sensitive to apoptosis induced by UV irradiation or anti-CD95. Resistance to apoptosis is accompanied by retention of the mitochondrial membrane potential in mutant cells. In addition, cytochrome c is translocated to the cytosol of Casp9−/− ES cells upon UV stimulation, suggesting that Casp9 acts downstream of cytochrome c. Caspase processing is inhibited in Casp9−/− ES cells but not in thymocytes or splenocytes. Comparison of the requirement for Casp9 and Casp3 in different apoptotic settings indicates the existence of at least four different apoptotic pathways in mammalian cells.