Apoptosis

Background

Apoptosis is a form of cell death that is programmed by the body and occurs naturally. Informally, apoptosis refers to the event of a cell "suiciding" when it is no longer neccessary. The process of apoptosis follows a controlled, predictable routine.

Process

When apoptosis is triggered, proteins called capsases break down essential cell components needed for survival. This instigates the production of enzymes called DNases, which break down the DNA of the cell. As the cell shrinks it sends signals to macrophages, which "clean up the mess" disposing of the cell and leaving no teace.

Biological Importance

Apotosis is neccessary for any living being to live a healthy life. It is essential for human development in the womb and getting rid of unnecessary and potentially damaging cells later in life. In addition, the body can use apoptosis as an immunity mechanism by signaling infected cells to suicide and thereby preventing a spread of damage. The neccessity of apoptosis in evident in diseases such as cancer, which is highly damaging because it prevents cells from commiting apoptosis and this leads to tumor growth abd other effects.

Apoptosis

Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is the process by which a cell commits to following a specific set of steps that destroy that cell. Apoptosis occurs as a part of normal development. Apoptosis also occurs to prevent dangerous agents from harming the body. For example, cells that are inflamed due to infection may undergo apoptosis.

References

AK Lectures