In cancer, the balance between proliferation and programmed cell death is disturbed, and defects in apoptotic pathways allow cells with genetic abnormalities to survive. Alterations in apoptotic pathways may result in resistance to drugs and radiation. Such alterations might serve as predictors of chemotherapy- and radiotherapy-sensitivity and, most importantly, as new treatment targets. The proteins p53, bcl-2 and clusterin influence the apoptotic activity of the cells. In this report we describe the distribution and possible functional significance of these proteins in squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx. Their implications in carcinogenesis and progression make these genes worthy of investigation.