Final answer:
Cytochrome C leakage into the cytoplasm initiates the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis by activating caspases that lead to the auto-digestion of the cell.
Step-by-step explanation:
The leakage of cytochrome C to the cytoplasm may trigger apoptosis through the intrinsic pathway. Cytochrome C is a peripheral membrane protein associated with the mitochondria and is meant to participate in the electron transport chain for energy production.
During apoptosis, cytochrome C is released into the cytoplasm where it binds with adaptor proteins, promoting the formation of a complex that activates procaspases to caspases. These caspases are proteolytic enzymes that begin the auto-digestion of the cell, leading to programmed cell death. Apoptosis is an essential biological process for maintaining cellular health by removing damaged, superfluous, or potentially dangerous cells.