Damaged cells are eliminated through several processes, primarily apoptosis and necrosis. Apoptosis, also known as programmed cell death, is a natural, controlled process where the cell self-destructs. This is a crucial mechanism for removing cells that are damaged beyond repair, preventing them from harming the body. In contrast, necrosis is accidental cell death resulting from injury or trauma. Necrotic cells leak their contents, potentially causing inflammation and further damage. The immune system also plays a critical role, identifying and destroying damaged cells through various mechanisms.
Apoptosis: Programmed Cell Death
Apoptosis is a highly regulated process vital for tissue homeostasis and development. When a cell sustains irreparable damage, it activates an internal self-destruct program. This leads to the controlled dismantling of the cell's components, preventing inflammation and harmful side effects. (Reference: Apoptosis: If the damage is severe, the Cell may undergo programmed Cell death. This process is a natural mechanism that can helps to remove damaged or harmful Cells from the body.14-Oct-2023)
Necrosis: Accidental Cell Death
Necrosis, unlike apoptosis, is uncontrolled and often results from external factors like trauma, infection, or toxins. The cell membrane ruptures, releasing its contents into the surrounding tissue, triggering inflammation and potentially further damage. (Reference: What is necrosis? Necrosis is an accidental or unprogrammed cell death that causes tissue death. Trauma to a cell can cause its contents to leak and damage…) (Cleveland Clinic)
Immune System Response
The immune system plays a vital role in identifying and eliminating damaged cells. Specialized cells, like macrophages and neutrophils, identify and engulf damaged or dying cells through phagocytosis. This removes cellular debris and prevents further inflammation. (Reference: white blood cells called neutrophils, which can find and kill bacteria. Different things can overcome and damage these natural protection… (Cancer Research UK))
Other Factors
Several other factors can contribute to the elimination of damaged cells, including:
- Radiation therapy: This treatment damages the DNA of cancer cells, triggering cell death. However, it doesn't kill cells instantly. It takes time for the body to break down and remove the damaged cells. (Reference: When the damaged cells die, they are broken down and removed by the body. Radiation therapy does not kill cancer cells right away. It takes days…) (NCI)
- Fasting: Prolonged fasting can trigger stem cell regeneration, which helps replace older and damaged immune cells. (Reference: prolonged fasting cycles — periods of no food for two to four days at a time over the course of six months — kill older and damaged immune cells…) (USC)
The specific mechanism of damaged cell removal depends on the type and extent of damage, the cell type, and the body's response.
