Apoptosis (Programmed Cell death) is one of the essential processes. Balance between cell division and cell death is of utmost importance for the development and maintenance of multi-cellular organism. Disorders of either process have pathologic consequences and can lead to disturbed embryogenesis, neuro-degerative diseases, or the development of cancers. This book reviews the apoptotic as well as anti-apoptotic molecules along with molecular pathways, which may alter in many diseases. The elucidations of the molecular mechanisms of apoptosis and their correlation with a vast array of human diseases have generated optimism for implementation of this knowledge for treatment purposes.

A cell is a membrane bound structure containing biomolecules, such as nucleic acids, proteins, and polysaccharides. The Endoplasmic Reticulum is organized into a netlike labyrinth of branching tubules and flattened sacs extending throughout the cytosol.The ER has a central role in lipid and protein biosynthesis.The ER membrane makes a major contribution to mitochondrial and peroxisomal membranes by producing most of their lipids. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) has many different functions. These include the translocation of proteins (such as secretory proteins) across the ER membrane; the integration of proteins into the membrane; the folding and modification of proteins in the ER lumen; the synthesis of phospholipids and steroids on the cytosolic side of the ER membrane; and the storage of calcium ions in the ER lumen and their regulated release into the cytosol.