Apoptosis

Definition

Apoptosis is a process of programmed cell death that occurs in multicellular organisms. It's a way for the body to get rid of old, unnecessary, or damaged cells.

Related terms

Cell Cycle:

The sequence of growth and division that cells go through. This includes interphase (growth), mitosis (division), and cytokinesis (separation).

Necrosis: A form of cell injury which results in the premature death of cells in living tissue by autolysis.

Caspases: A family of protease enzymes playing essential roles in programmed cell death (including apoptosis), necrosis, and inflammation.