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Apoptosis

Meaning

Apoptosis is the process of programmed cell death, a highly organized and genetically regulated biological mechanism essential for maintaining tissue homeostasis and eliminating damaged or superfluous cells. Unlike necrosis, apoptosis is an orderly cellular self-destruction that does not elicit an inflammatory response in surrounding tissue, which is vital for systemic health. This precise cellular demise is crucial for normal embryonic development, immune system regulation, and preventing the proliferation of potentially malignant cells.