Which of the following occurs during apoptosis? (A) lysis of the cell (B) direct contact between signaling cells (C) fragmentation of the DNA (D) release of proteases outside the cell

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that apoptosis is a form of programmed cell death, which is a controlled process that allows cells to die without causing harm to the surrounding tissue.
2. Recall that during apoptosis, the cell undergoes a series of characteristic changes, including cell shrinkage, chromatin condensation, and membrane blebbing.
3. Consider the options provided: (A) lysis of the cell, (B) direct contact between signaling cells, (C) fragmentation of the DNA, and (D) release of proteases outside the cell.
4. Recognize that one of the key features of apoptosis is the fragmentation of DNA, which is a result of the activation of specific enzymes called caspases that cleave the DNA at internucleosomal regions.
5. Eliminate the other options by understanding that lysis of the cell (A) is more characteristic of necrosis, direct contact between signaling cells (B) is not a direct feature of apoptosis, and release of proteases outside the cell (D) is not a typical event in apoptosis.

Key Concepts

Apoptosis

Apoptosis is a programmed cell death process that is essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis and development. Unlike necrosis, which results in cell lysis and inflammation, apoptosis is a controlled mechanism that leads to the orderly dismantling of cellular components without causing harm to surrounding tissues.

DNA Fragmentation

During apoptosis, one of the hallmark features is the fragmentation of DNA. This process is mediated by specific enzymes called caspases, which activate endonucleases that cleave the DNA into smaller pieces, ultimately leading to the cell's demise and preventing the release of potentially harmful substances into the extracellular environment.

Signaling Pathways

Apoptosis is often triggered by signaling pathways that involve direct contact between cells or the release of signaling molecules. These pathways can be intrinsic, involving internal cellular stress, or extrinsic, where external signals bind to death receptors on the cell surface, initiating the apoptotic process.