BIK

The protein encoded by this gene is known to interact with cellular and viral survival-promoting proteins, such as BCL2 and the Epstein-Barr virus in order to enhance programed cell death. Because its activity is suppressed in the presence of survival-promoting proteins, this protein is suggested as a likely target for antiapoptotic proteins. This protein shares a critical BH3 domain with other death-promoting proteins, BAX and BAK. [provided by RefSeq]

Full Name

BCL2-interacting killer (apoptosis-inducing)

Function

Accelerates programmed cell death. Association to the apoptosis repressors Bcl-X(L), BHRF1, Bcl-2 or its adenovirus homolog E1B 19k protein suppresses this death-promoting activity. Does not interact with BAX.

Biological Process

Apoptotic mitochondrial changes Source: GO_Central
Apoptotic process Source: UniProtKB
Male gonad development Source: GO_Central
Positive regulation of protein-containing complex assembly Source: BHF-UCL
Positive regulation of release of cytochrome c from mitochondria Source: BHF-UCL
Regulation of apoptotic process Source: InterPro

Cellular Location

Mitochondrion membrane; Endomembrane system. Around the nuclear envelope, and in cytoplasmic membranes.

Topology

Helical: 136-156 aa

PTM

Proteolytically cleaved by RHBDL4/RHBDD1. RHBDL4/RHBDD1-induced cleavage is a necessary step prior its degradation by the proteosome-dependent mechanism.