Question

Apoptotic cells are efficiently phagocytosed by neighboring cells or macrophages. Which of the following normally happens during apoptosis?

1) Cell shrinkage and condensation of chromatin
2) Formation of apoptotic bodies
3) Release of intracellular contents
4) Prevention of phagocytosis by neighboring cells or macrophages

Answer 1

During apoptosis, a cell will shrink and chromatin condenses, forming membrane-bound fragments called apoptotic bodies, which are then phagocytosed by neighboring cells or macrophages, contrary to necrosis where cell contents are released.

Step-by-step explanation:

During the process of apoptosis, which is often referred to as programmed cell death, several characteristic events typically occur. One of the earliest signs is cell shrinkage and the condensation of the cell's chromatin. As apoptosis progresses, the cell starts to break apart into smaller, membrane-bound fragments known as apoptotic bodies. This is a deliberate process designed to contain the cellular components and prevent damage to neighboring cells. Interestingly, during apoptosis, there is no release of intracellular contents into the surrounding area, which is an event usually associated with necrosis, not apoptosis.

Finally, apoptosis is characterized by the efficient phagocytosis of the apoptotic cells or bodies by neighboring cells or macrophages, thus preventing inflammation and ensuring the cellular components are recycled with minimal impact on the surrounding tissue.