- Apoptosis: Also known as programmed cell death, apoptosis is a highly regulated process that involves cell shrinkage, DNA fragmentation, and membrane blebbing. Caspases, a family of proteases, play a crucial role in executing apoptosis. - Necrosis: In contrast to apoptosis, necrosis is an uncontrolled form of cell death resulting from acute damage. It is characterized by cell swelling, loss of membrane integrity, and inflammation. - Autophagy: This is a survival mechanism where cells degrade and recycle their own components. However, excessive autophagy can lead to cell death, termed autophagic cell death.
