Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 19, 2026
06:12
Author Spotlight: THP-1 Macrophage Response to LPS/ATP — Unveiling the Pyroptosis, Apoptosis, and Necroptosis Spectrum
Published on: May 3, 2024
3.8K
[Programmed cell death: is it only apoptosis?].
Polski Merkuriusz Lekarski : Organ Polskiego Towarzystwa Lekarskiego
|December 19, 2014
Summary
Classical cell death definitions are outdated. This study introduces unified criteria for evaluating cell death mechanisms, addressing confusion caused by terms like apoptosis and necrosis.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Classical definitions of apoptosis (programmed cell death--PCD) and necrosis are no longer scientifically valid.
- Recent reports highlight the need to revise established cell death classifications.
- The existence of multiple genetically regulated cell death pathways, such as programmed necrosis, challenges traditional distinctions.
Discussion:
- Current terminology for cell death mechanisms leads to significant confusion in scientific communication.
- The lack of standardized criteria hinders accurate research and interpretation of cell death processes.
- Revisiting and unifying cell death definitions is crucial for advancing the field.
Key Insights:
- Presents unified criteria for evaluating cell death mechanisms based on 2009 and 2012 recommendations.
- Addresses the invalidity of the strict canonical distinction between apoptosis and necrosis.
- Clarifies terminology surrounding genetically regulated cell death processes.
Outlook:
- Facilitates clearer communication and understanding of cell death research.
- Provides a standardized framework for future studies on cell death.
- Aims to reduce ambiguity in the classification and study of cell death pathways.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Overview of Cell Death
11.4K
Cell death is an essential process where the body gets rid of old or damaged cells. Cell proliferation and death need to be balanced, as an imbalance between the two may lead to cancer or autoimmune diseases.
Cell death was observed in the early 19th century, but there was no experimental evidence to prove it. In 1842, Carl Vogt first discovered cell death in a metamorphic toad; however, it was not termed ‘cell death.’ Scientists discovered different cell death pathways only in the...
Cell death was observed in the early 19th century, but there was no experimental evidence to prove it. In 1842, Carl Vogt first discovered cell death in a metamorphic toad; however, it was not termed ‘cell death.’ Scientists discovered different cell death pathways only in the...
11.4K
01:30Apoptosis
17.3K
Apoptosis is a combination of two Greek words, 'apo' and 'ptosis,' meaning separation and falling off, respectively. Hippocrates used this word to describe gangrene, which was caused due to bandaging of fractured bones. Apoptosis was distinguished from necrosis in 1970 when John Kerr reported observations of morphological changes occurring during apoptosis. During one experiment, he observed that the disruption of blood supply to the liver tissue resulted in a size...
17.3K
01:22Cellular Injury V: Apoptosis and Autophagy
7
Cells respond to damage and stress through highly coordinated processes that decide whether they survive or undergo controlled self-destruction. Two major pathways involved in this regulation are apoptosis, a type of programmed cell death, and autophagy, a survival mechanism that helps cells adapt to adverse conditions.ApoptosisApoptosis removes aged or injured cells to maintain tissue balance. During this process, the cell shrinks, chromatin condenses and fragments, and membrane-bound...
7
01:18Autophagic Cell Death
5.1K
Christian de Duve discovered “autophagy,” a process in which cellular components are engulfed by membrane-bound organelles called autophagosomes. The autophagosomes then fuse with lysosomes to digest the enclosed contents. Autophagy is generally activated in cells to prevent cell death. However, cell death is triggered when the damage is beyond repair.
Autophagy and Apoptosis
Autophagy can activate apoptosis. In normal conditions, the autophagy activating protein Beclin-1 and...
Autophagy and Apoptosis
Autophagy can activate apoptosis. In normal conditions, the autophagy activating protein Beclin-1 and...
5.1K
01:17The Extrinsic Apoptotic Pathway
9.5K
The extrinsic apoptotic pathway is initiated when extracellular death-inducing signals, such as specific cytokines, activate the death receptors expressed on the cell surface. The immune cells involved in this pathway are natural killer cells (NK cells) and cytotoxic T-lymphocytes. NK cells are critical in innate immune response, while cytotoxic T-lymphocytes are associated with adaptive immune response. These cells recognize specific receptors expressed on the altered cells and activate...
9.5K
01:11Cellular Injury IlI: Cellular Death
5
Cell death is the irreversible loss of cellular structure and function, representing the final stage of severe injury. It plays a key role in both normal physiology and disease.Types of Cell DeathThe two main types are necrosis and apoptosis, though others like necroptosis and pyroptosis also exist.Necrosis:Necrosis is an unregulated form of cell death caused by severe injury such as trauma, toxins, or ischemia. It is characterized by cell swelling, membrane loss, rupture, and leakage of...
5