Final answer:
Apoptosis of cortical neurons differs from necrosis in several ways: it is a programmed cell death that occurs in a controlled manner, the cells form apoptotic bodies, and the ultrastructure is different.
Step-by-step explanation:
Apoptosis of cortical neurons differs from necrosis in several ways:
- Apoptosis is a programmed cell death and occurs in a controlled manner, while necrosis is an accidental death resulting from external injury.
- During apoptosis, the cell membrane remains intact and forms apoptotic bodies, while necrotic cells lose their plasma membranes and eventually disintegrate.
- The ultrastructure of necrotic and apoptotic cells seen in electron micrographs also differs. Necrotic cells may show cytoplasmic swelling, while apoptotic cells may have characteristic nuclei.