How is apoptosis related to physiologic homeostasis?
A)The process prevents germline mutations.
B)The efficiency of organ/tissue functions is increased.
C)Replacement with scar tissue occurs more rapidly after cell damage.
D)Cells that are able to undergo apoptosis bypass restriction point controls for mitosis.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In tissues and organs that are composed of cells capable of undergoing apoptosis (programmed cell death), older or poorly functional cells are removed, making room for new cells generated by mitosis so that the tissue/organ continues to be populated throughout life by optimally functional cells. Apoptosis has no role in preventing or altering germline mutations. Replacing dead or damaged cells with scar tissue reduces organ function and does not contribute to physiologic homeostasis. Cells that undergo apoptosis must respond to the same mitotic restrictions as cells that do not undergo apoptosis.

How Is Apoptosis Related to Physiologic Homeostasis