As an important kinase in the organism, adenylate kinase (AK) not only plays a crucial role in keeping the energy balance, but also takes part in the procedure of apoptosis. In apoptotic cells the release of AK2 from mitochondrial intermembrane to the cytosol is very common, but its function is still not clear. The latest research of AK in apoptosis and the possible role of AK during apoptosis are reviewed.