Apoptosis
Definition
Apoptosis is the process of programmed cell death that occurs in multicellular organisms. It is a crucial mechanism for maintaining cellular health and homeostasis.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Apoptosis plays a key role in eliminating infected cells and can be induced by anti-infective drugs.
- It is distinct from necrosis, which is uncontrolled cell death resulting from injury.
- In Alzheimer's disease, abnormal apoptosis may contribute to neuronal cell loss.
- Certain antibiotics can trigger apoptosis in bacterial cells as part of their mechanism of action.
- Antiviral and antifungal drugs may also exploit apoptotic pathways to eliminate infected cells.
Review Questions
- What role does apoptosis play in the effectiveness of anti-infective drugs?
- How does apoptosis differ from necrosis?
- Why is apoptosis significant in the context of Alzheimer's disease?
"Apoptosis" appears in:
Subjects (6)
Related terms
Necrosis: Uncontrolled cell death due to injury or infection.
Cell Homeostasis: The balance of cell proliferation and death to maintain tissue stability.
Neurodegeneration: The progressive loss of structure or function of neurons, often associated with diseases like Alzheimer's.
