Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is triggered by a variety of factors. It's a crucial process for normal development and maintaining tissue health.
Key Causes of Apoptosis:
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Developmental Signaling: Apoptosis is essential during embryonic development, sculpting body parts by eliminating unwanted cells. For example, the formation of fingers and toes requires the programmed death of cells between the digits. (Genome.gov)
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Cell Damage: Old, damaged, or infected cells can initiate apoptosis to prevent further harm to the organism. (Cleveland Clinic)
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Withdrawal of Survival Signals: Cells require signals from their environment to survive. Loss of these signals can trigger apoptosis. (Bio-Rad)
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DNA Damage: Cells with severe DNA damage initiate apoptosis to prevent the replication of mutated DNA. (Khan Academy)
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Disease Processes: Many diseases, like type 2 diabetes, involve dysregulation of apoptosis. For instance, elevated glucose and free fatty acids can induce beta-cell apoptosis in type 2 diabetes. (Diabetes Journals)
The Mechanism: A Cascade of Events
Apoptosis is characterized by a specific cascade of events, notably involving caspases, enzymes that break down cellular components. This leads to cell shrinkage, DNA fragmentation, and ultimately, the cell's removal by phagocytosis (engulfment by other cells). ([Reference 30-Apr-2024])
