Apoptosis is a form of programmed cell death that occurs in a controlled and regulated manner. It is crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis and development.
Characteristics of Apoptosis
- Cellular Shrinkage - The cell undergoes shrinkage and condensation of its cytoplasm and nucleus, distinguishing it from other forms of cell death like necrosis.
- Chromatin Condensation and Fragmentation - The chromatin in the nucleus becomes densely packed and eventually fragments into smaller pieces, which is a hallmark of apoptosis.
- Formation of Apoptotic Bodies - The cell breaks apart into membrane-bound vesicles called apoptotic bodies, which are then phagocytosed and removed by surrounding cells without causing inflammation.
- Controlled Process - Apoptosis is a highly regulated process involving specific signaling pathways and molecular machinery, ensuring that cell death occurs in a controlled and systematic manner without damaging neighboring cells.
