Which of the following describes the morphological hallmark of apoptosis that distinguishes it from necrosis?
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Correct answer: Cytoplasmic shrinkage and chromatin condensation
Apoptosis is characterized by cell shrinkage and the condensation of chromatin (pyknosis), which keeps the cellular contents contained. Unlike necrosis, this process does not involve membrane rupture or the release of inflammatory signals into the extracellular space.
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More Apoptosis and Its Significance questions
- The 'intrinsic pathway' of apoptosis is primarily regulated by which organelle?
- Which family of proteins acts as the primary 'molecular switch' to either promote or inhibit apoptosis?
- During the execution phase of apoptosis, which enzymes are responsible for the deliberate proteolysis of cellular components?
- What is the biological significance of apoptosis during vertebrate limb development?
- The release of which molecule from the mitochondria is required to form the apoptosome in the cytosol?
- Which of the following best describes 'DNA laddering' observed in apoptotic cells?