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Multiple Choice
p53 is a protein that can initiate apoptosis in a damaged cell. What is apoptosis?
A
Programmed cell death
B
DNA replication
C
Uncontrolled cell division
D
Cellular differentiation
Verified step by step guidance
1
Apoptosis is a biological process, so let's start by understanding what it means. Apoptosis is a form of programmed cell death, which is a crucial mechanism in maintaining the health and balance of an organism.
Programmed cell death is different from necrosis, which is uncontrolled cell death due to injury or disease. Apoptosis is a controlled process that allows cells to die in a regulated manner, preventing damage to surrounding tissues.
During apoptosis, a series of biochemical events lead to characteristic cell changes and death. These changes include cell shrinkage, chromatin condensation, DNA fragmentation, and membrane blebbing.
The role of apoptosis is vital in development and homeostasis. It helps eliminate damaged or potentially harmful cells, such as those with DNA damage, which could lead to cancer if left unchecked.
p53 is a protein that plays a key role in regulating apoptosis. When a cell is damaged, p53 can trigger apoptosis to prevent the propagation of damaged DNA, thus acting as a tumor suppressor.