apoptosis

apoptosis /ap·op·to·sis/ (ap?op-to´sis) a pattern of cell death affecting single cells, marked by shrinkage of the cell, condensation of chromatin, and fragmentation of the cell into membrane-bound bodies that are eliminated by phagocytosis. Often used synonymously with programmed cell death. apoptot´ic

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ap·op·to·sis (pp-tss, p-t-)

n.

A natural process of self-destruction in certain cells that is determined by the genes and can be initiated by a stimulus or by removal of a repressor agent. Also called programmed cell death.

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apoptosis (a·pp·tōˑ·sis),

n programmed destruction of cells; mechanism that keeps cell numbers in check by eliminating senescent cells or those without useful cell function.

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apoptosis (ap´tō´sis),

n cell reduction by fragmentation into membrane-bound particles that are phagocytosed by other cells.

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apoptosis

programmed cell death, a process including coagulative necrosis and shrinkage.