Apoptosis

Definition

Programmed cell death; cells literally committing suicide when they're supposed to. Nature's way of saying 'your time is up.'

Example Usage

Cancer cells evade apoptosis and continue dividing unchecked, which is why tumors grow and we have problems.

Origin

From Greek 'apo' (from) and 'ptosis' (falling)

Fun Fact

Your body kills approximately 50-70 billion cells per day through apoptosis. You're a walking cellular cemetery.

Source: Cell Biology and Pathology Standards

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poms

parent over my shoulder...