The highly organized and sequential series of biochemical and molecular events that a cell initiates to detect, excise, and replace damaged components, including proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. These sequences are fundamental to maintaining cellular integrity, function, and viability over time. They represent the intrinsic mechanisms of cellular quality control that prevent the accumulation of molecular errors.
Origin
This term is a descriptive phrase combining the basic unit of life, the “cell,” with the biological process of “repair,” and the scientific recognition that these processes occur in a predictable “sequence” of steps. It is deeply rooted in molecular biology and genetics, where the steps of DNA and protein repair have been meticulously mapped.
Mechanism
Key pathways involved include DNA repair mechanisms like nucleotide excision repair and base excision repair, as well as the protein quality control system involving chaperones and the ubiquitin-proteasome system. Autophagy, the process of self-digestion of damaged organelles, is also a critical sequence, allowing for the recycling of cellular components and renewal of the cellular environment. Hormonal signals can significantly modulate the efficiency of these repair processes.
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