CASP3 and colorectal carcinoma: The main mechanisms involved include the induction of mitochondrial apoptosis, as evidenced by increased caspase-3 activation and mitochondrial membrane potential disruption, enhancement of endogenous antioxidant defenses through upregulation of enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase, and a marked reduction in oxidative DNA damage, as shown by decreased levels of 8-oxo-dG in treated CRC cells.