title: Death-defying apoptotic caspases in thrombopoiesis.
abstract: In this issue of Blood, White et al provide compelling evidence that the intrinsic apoptotic caspase cascade, while required for megakaryocyte and platelet death under pathophysiologic conditions, is dispensable for normal platelet formation and function.
authors.affiliation: Children's Hospital Boston.
authors.forename: Alan B
authors.initials: AB
authors.lastname: Cantor