The activation of the AKT/protein kinase B kinases by mutation of the PTEN lipid
phosphatase results in enhanced survival of a diversity of tumors. This resistance to
apoptosis is partly accomplished by the inhibition of genetic programs induced by a
subfamily of forkhead transcription factors including AFX. Here we describe an AFX-
regulated pathway that appears to account for at least part of this apoptotic regulatory
system. Cells induced to synthesize an active form of AFX die by activating the apoptotic …