apoptosis

[uh-PAH-tuh-sis]
nounfemininepl: apoptoses
apoptose
1. A form of programmed cell death in which a series of molecular steps leads to the elimination of cells without causing inflammation
Apoptosis is a natural process that helps maintain tissue homeostasis by removing damaged or unnecessary cells.
A apoptose é um processo natural que ajuda a manter a homeostase tecidual removendo células danificadas ou desnecessárias.
2. Cell death triggered by internal or external signals that initiates a cascade of caspase enzymes
Cancer researchers study how to induce apoptosis in tumor cells to stop their uncontrolled growth.
Pesquisadores de câncer estudam como induzir apoptose em células tumorais para parar seu crescimento descontrolado.
3. A regulated cellular suicide mechanism characterized by cell shrinkage, chromatin condensation, and DNA fragmentation
The failure of apoptosis can lead to the development of various diseases, including autoimmune disorders and cancer.
A falha da apoptose pode levar ao desenvolvimento de várias doenças, incluindo transtornos autoimunes e câncer.
Apoptosis is a fundamental concept in modern molecular biology and medical research, widely studied in both American and Brazilian scientific institutions. The term is used identically in both English and Portuguese scientific literature, making it a true cognate. In Brazil, it is primarily encountered in medical schools, research institutions, and pharmaceutical contexts. Understanding apoptosis has become crucial in cancer treatment development and immunology research worldwide.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
programmed cell deathPCDcellular suicide
Antonyms / Antônimos
necrosiscell proliferationmitosis

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
apoptose
Standard medical and scientific term used throughout Brazil
Portugal
apoptose
Same term used in European Portuguese medical contexts
Academic/Scientific
morte celular programada
Literal translation occasionally used as explanatory alternative

Related Words

caspasenecrosisautophagyhomeostasiscell cyclemitochondriaDNA fragmentation

Related Idioms & Phrases

trigger apoptosis
induce apoptosis
evade apoptosis
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