Reversible and Irreversible Cell Injury · Pathology

Which intracellular ion increases significantly in the cytosol during irreversible cell injury, activating various damaging enzymes?

  1. Magnesium
  2. Sodium
  3. Calcium
  4. Potassium
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Correct answer: Calcium

Ischemia and toxins cause an influx of calcium from the extracellular space and its release from intracellular stores (ER and mitochondria). Increased cytosolic calcium activates phospholipases, proteases, endonucleases, and ATPases, accelerating cell death.

Difficulty: Medium Question 16 of 20

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