A model for the regulation of apoptosis intrinsic pathway: The potential role of the transcriptional regulator E2F in the point of no return

•Apoptosis onset via BAK is restricted by upper limit in apoptosome concentration.•Caspase 3 and 9 synthesis are highly sensitive steps of the intrinsic pathway.•Transcription factor E2F activates, directly, caspase 3 and 9 synthesis.•Apoptosis onset via E2F overcomes limitation in apoptosome concentration.•We show thatE2F could be a key regulator of the point of no return in apoptosis.