apoptosis

[ ap-uh-toh-sis, ap-uhp‑ ]

noun

1. a normal, genetically regulated process leading to the death of cells and triggered by the presence or absence of certain stimuli, as DNA damage.

apoptosis

/ ˌæpəpˈtəʊsɪs /

noun

1. biology the programmed death of some of an organism's cells as part of its natural growth and development Also calledprogrammed cell death

apoptosis

/ ăp′əp-tō′sĭs,ăp′ə-tō′- /

1. A natural process of self-destruction in certain cells, such as epithelial cells and erythrocytes, that are genetically programmed to have a limited life span or are damaged. Apoptosis can be induced either by a stimulus, such as irradiation or toxic drugs, or by removal of a repressor agent. The cells disintegrate into membrane-bound particles that are then eliminated by phagocytosis.
2. Also called programmed cell death

apoptosis

1. The programmed death of a cell . Scientists believe that this process is governed by chemical signals a given cell receives from its neighbors.

Notes

It is thought some forms of cancer may result when this process of cell death is somehow interrupted, allowing cells to grow unchecked, with the result being a cancerous tumor .

Other Words From

• ap·op·tot·ic [ap-, uh, -, tot, -ik, ap-, uh, p‑], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of apoptosis¹

1970–75; New Latin < Greek apόptōsis a falling off, equivalent to apo- apo- ( def ) + ptōsis ptosis ( def )

Word History and Origins

Origin of apoptosis¹

C20: from Greek: a falling away, from apo- + ptōsis a falling

Example Sentences

The tardigrade proteins did this by inhibiting apoptosis, a cellular self-destruct program that is often triggered by exposure to harmful chemicals or radiation.

From Science News

In one study in rats, swimming was shown to stimulate brain pathways that suppress inflammation in the hippocampus and inhibit apoptosis, or cell death.

From Popular-Science

Although researchers do not yet have a way to visualize apoptosis and neuronal survival in people, they do observe similar cognitive outcomes.

From Popular-Science

Apoptosis is a word that is more likely to be read than spoken.

From Science News For Students

Those cells undergo apoptosis and die back, leaving fully formed fingers behind.

From Science News For Students

THC and cannabidiol both induce apoptosis in leukemic cell lines.

From The Daily Beast