Cell cycle and apoptosis · USMLE Step 1

Which of the following best describes apoptosis?

  1. Uncontrolled cell death resulting from acute injury
  2. Programmed cell death with chromatin condensation and DNA fragmentation
  3. Cell division occurring without cytokinesis or separation
  4. Necrosis driven by inflammation and tissue swelling
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Programmed cell death with chromatin condensation and DNA fragmentation

Apoptosis is a regulated process of programmed cell death featuring chromatin condensation, nuclear fragmentation, membrane blebbing, and DNA fragmentation — distinct from necrosis which involves uncontrolled cell death and inflammation.

Difficulty: Medium Question 8 of 19

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