APAF Oligomeric Apaf-1 mediates the cytochrome c-dependent autocatalytic activation of pro-caspase-9 (Apaf-3), leading to the activation of caspase-3 and apoptosis. This activation requires ATP. Isoform 6 is less effective in inducing apoptosis. Induced by E2F and p53 in apoptotic neurons. Monomer. Oligomerizes upon binding of cytochrome c and dATP. Oligomeric Apaf-1 and pro-caspase-9 bind to each other via their respective NH2-terminal CARD domains and consecutively mature caspase-9 is released from the complex. Pro-caspase-3 is recruited into the Apaf-1-pro-caspase-9 complex via interaction with pro-caspase-9. Interacts with APIP. 6 isoforms of the human protein are produced by alternative splicing.
