apoptosis

[ ap-uh-toh-sis, ap-uhp‐ ]

/ ˌæp əˈtoʊ sɪs, ˌæp əp‐ /

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Definition of apoptosis

noun

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

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Also called programmed cell death .

Origin of apoptosis

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

OTHER WORDS FROM apoptosis

ap·op·tot·ic

[ap-uh-tot-ik, ap-uhp‐], /ˌæp əˈtɒt ɪk, ˌæp əp‐/, adjective

Words nearby apoptosis

apoplast, apoplectic, apoplectiform, apoplexy, apoprotein, apoptosis, apopyle, aporia, aport, aposematic, aposematic coloration

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2022

How to use apoptosis in a sentence

The tardigrade proteins did this by inhibiting apoptosis, a cellular self-destruct program that is often triggered by exposure to harmful chemicals or radiation.
Tardigrades could teach us how to handle the rigors of space travel|Douglas Fox|July 13, 2022|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.
Swimming is the ultimate brain exercise. Here’s why.|Purbita Saha|July 28, 2021|Popular-Science
Although researchers do not yet have a way to visualize apoptosis and neuronal survival in people, they do observe similar cognitive outcomes.
Swimming is the ultimate brain exercise. Here’s why.|Purbita Saha|July 28, 2021|Popular-Science
Those cells undergo apoptosis and die back, leaving fully formed fingers behind.
Scientists Say: Apoptosis|Bethany Brookshire|November 30, 2020|Science News For Students

THC and cannabidiol both induce apoptosis in leukemic cell lines.
Marijuana Fights Cancer and Helps Manage Side Effects, Researchers Find|Martin A. Lee|September 6, 2012|DAILY BEAST

British Dictionary definitions for apoptosis

apoptosis

/ (ˌæpəpˈtəʊsɪs) /

noun

biology the programmed death of some of an organism's cells as part of its natural growth and developmentAlso called: programmed cell death

Word Origin for apoptosis

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

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Scientific definitions for apoptosis

apoptosis

[ ăp′əp-tō′sĭs, ăp′ə-tō′- ]

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. Also called programmed cell death

Cultural definitions for apoptosis

apoptosis

[ (ap-uhp-toh-sis) ]

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

notes for apoptosis

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.