What is the process of programmed cell death called?

The process of programmed cell death is referred to as apoptosis. This is a highly regulated and controlled process that allows cells to self-destruct when they are no longer needed or are functioning abnormally. Apoptosis plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, including development, immune system regulation, and maintaining tissue homeostasis.

During apoptosis, cells undergo distinct morphological changes, such as cell shrinkage, chromatin condensation, and the fragmentation of cellular components into apoptotic bodies. These fragmented cells are then recognized and efficiently cleared by phagocytes, preventing inflammation and damage to surrounding tissues. Unlike necrosis, which often results from acute injury and leads to inflammation, apoptosis is a clean and orderly way for the body to eliminate unwanted cells.

The other processes listed, such as necrosis, autophagy, and senescence, differ from apoptosis in their mechanisms and implications for cellular health and function. While necrosis is often associated with uncontrolled cell death due to injury or stress, autophagy involves the degradation and recycling of cellular components, and senescence refers to the state where cells stop dividing and enter a state of permanent growth arrest, rather than actively undergoing programmed death.