Question

Which of the following reasons explain why apoptosis, programmed cell death, is good for animals? (Choose all that apply)

a. Prevent cells with extensive DNA damage from becoming cancerous.
b. Helps pull in immune cells to fight infection through inflammation of surrounding tissues.
c. Could kill cells infected with viruses so the virus can't replicate.
d. Important in brain development and maturation.

Answer 1

Apoptosis is beneficial for preventing the proliferation of cancerous cells, halting viral replication within infected cells, and playing a crucial role in normal organismal development including brain maturation and the formation of distinct body structures.

Step-by-step explanation:

Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is a mechanism that is beneficial for animals for several reasons. Firstly, it prevents cells with extensive DNA damage from becoming cancerous, as it allows for cancerous cells and those with potential mutations to undergo apoptosis before they can proliferate uncontrollably.

Secondly, apoptosis can destroy cells infected with viruses, thereby preventing viral replication and spreading within the organism. Lastly, apoptosis is essential for normal development, such as the maturation process in the brain and the formation of distinct digits in vertebrates by eliminating unneeded cells.