Authors
Creative Bioarray
Summary
Cell apoptosis, also known as programmed cell death, refers to the spontaneous and highly regulated cell death induced by the cell response to irreparable damage. Apoptosis is an active process, which is different from passive necrosis. Cell apoptosis can be initiated through the intrinsic pathway or the extrinsic pathway. The initiation is tightly regulated by activation mechanisms. Cell apoptosis involves the activation, expression and regulation of a series of genes. It is generally characterized by several morphological characteristics, including membrane blebbing, cell shrinkage, nuclear fragmentation, chromatin condensation, chromosomal DNA fragmentation, and the formation of apoptotic bodies.
Introduction
Cell apoptosis has important biological significance. It plays a critical role in embryonic development and morphogenesis, organ development, tissue remodeling, defense and immune responses, and the maintenance of homeostasis. Defective apoptosis is related to the pathogenesis of multiple diseases. Excess apoptosis can lead to hematologic and neurodegenerative diseases. On the other hand, insufficient apoptosis can result in autoimmune diseases, cancer, inflammatory disease, etc.
The study of apoptosis pathways and mechanisms is of great significance for fundamental research and drug development. An increasing number of treatments are designed to target specific signaling components of apoptosis pathways or alter the apoptotic threshold.
Advertisement
Stats
- Recommendations n/a n/a positive of 0 vote(s)
- Views 375
- Comments 0