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Cardiomyocyte Apoptosis

Meaning

Cardiomyocyte apoptosis is the specific process of programmed cell death affecting the heart muscle cells, known as cardiomyocytes. This highly regulated biological mechanism ensures the orderly removal of damaged or unnecessary cells without triggering the inflammatory response characteristic of necrosis. In a clinical context, even a small, sustained loss of these critical cells can significantly contribute to the structural remodeling and functional decline seen in various forms of heart disease, including chronic heart failure. The careful balance between cell survival and this intrinsic death pathway is paramount for maintaining cardiac output and long-term cardiovascular health.