The human cell will begin apoptosis when
a toxin is released from the cell - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 15 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 15
The human cell will begin apoptosis when
a toxin is released from the cell.
an increase in the number of cells is required.
the cell has been irreversibly damaged... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The human cell will begin apoptosis when
a toxin is released from the cell - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 15 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
a signalling molecule attaches to a death receptor on the plasma membrane of the cell.
96%
114 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is often initiated when specific signalling molecules bind to death receptors on the surface of a cell. These receptors belong to the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor superfamily and play a crucial role in mediating apoptosis. Upon binding of the signalling molecule, a cascade of intracellular signals is triggered, leading to the activation of caspases, which are the enzymes responsible for executing the cell death program.
Step 2
a toxin is released from the cell.
99%
104 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
The release of a toxin from the cell does not typically trigger apoptosis. Instead, this scenario could suggest toxic stress or injury, which might lead to necrosis rather than the controlled process of apoptosis.
Step 3
an increase in the number of cells is required.
96%
101 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
An increase in cell number is generally not associated with apoptosis. In fact, apoptosis serves to eliminate excess cells, ensuring tissue homeostasis, rather than requiring an increase in cell count.
Step 4
the cell has been irreversibly damaged by very low temperatures.
98%
120 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
While severe damage due to very low temperatures can lead to cell death, this scenario typically results in necrosis due to extreme stress or injury rather than the regulated process of apoptosis.