The cAMP signaling pathway plays an essential role in modulating the apoptotic response to
various stress stimuli. Until now, it was attributed exclusively to the activity of the G-protein-
responsive transmembrane adenylyl cyclase. In addition to transmembrane AC, mammalian
cells possess a second source of cAMP, the ubiquitously expressed soluble adenylyl
cyclase (sAC). However, the role of this cyclase in apoptosis was unknown. A mitochondrial
localization of this cyclase has recently been demonstrated, which led us to the hypothesis …