📚 Topic Summary
Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is a crucial process in multicellular organisms. It's a highly regulated mechanism that eliminates damaged, unnecessary, or potentially dangerous cells. Unlike necrosis, which is cell death due to injury, apoptosis is a controlled dismantling of the cell, preventing inflammation and damage to surrounding tissues. This process is vital for development, tissue homeostasis, and immune system function.
Dysregulation of apoptosis is implicated in various diseases, including cancer (where cells avoid apoptosis) and neurodegenerative disorders (where excessive apoptosis occurs). Understanding the key players and pathways involved in apoptosis is therefore essential for comprehending many biological processes and disease states.
🧪 Part A: Vocabulary
Match the following terms with their correct definitions:
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Caspases |
A. Cell death due to injury |
| 2. Cytochrome c |
B. A protein released from mitochondria that initiates apoptosis |
| 3. Apoptosome |
C. A complex formed in the cytoplasm during apoptosis |
| 4. Necrosis |
D. Enzymes that execute apoptosis |
| 5. Growth Factors |
E. Signals that can inhibit apoptosis |
Answers: 1-D, 2-B, 3-C, 4-A, 5-E
🧬 Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Apoptosis is a form of __________ cell death that is essential for development and __________ maintenance. It involves the activation of __________ enzymes, which degrade cellular components in a controlled manner. The process is regulated by various signals, including growth factors and __________. Dysregulation of apoptosis can lead to diseases such as cancer and __________ disorders.
Answers: programmed, tissue, caspase, cytokines, neurodegenerative
🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking
Explain how the dysregulation of apoptosis can contribute to the development of cancer. Be specific about the mechanisms involved.