Casp7, a cysteine protease, is a member of the caspase family. It plays a crucial role in apoptosis, a genetically programmed cell death process vital for cellular homeostasis. Casp7 is involved in pathways related to innate immunity regulation, as well as the development and response to various diseases. Genetic models are valuable for studying its function and the impact of its genetic variations [3].

Casp7 has been associated with multiple disease conditions. In ischaemic stroke, the rs12415607 A allele in the promoter of Casp7 reduces the risk of the disease by inducing lower transcriptional activity and Casp7 mRNA levels [1]. In non-small cell lung cancer patients treated with platinum-based chemotherapy, certain Casp7 polymorphisms (rs2227310, rs4353229, rs12415607) are associated with better overall survival [2]. Additionally, in colorectal cancer, the rs2227310 GG genotype of Casp7 is correlated with worse disease-free and disease-specific survival [5]. It's also associated with childhood leukemia risk through its genetic polymorphisms [4].

In conclusion, Casp7 is essential in apoptosis and has a significant impact on various diseases, including ischaemic stroke, non-small cell lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and childhood leukemia. Genetic models, especially those related to Casp7 gene polymorphisms, have provided insights into its role in these disease conditions, contributing to our understanding of disease mechanisms and potential prognostic markers.