Which term refers to programmed cell death?a.cell death                            b.necrosisc.apoptosis

The term that refers to programmed cell death is c. apoptosis.

Explanation

Apoptosis is a crucial biological process that allows cells to self-destruct in a controlled manner without causing harm to surrounding tissues. This process is essential for maintaining homeostasis in organisms and plays a vital role in development, immune system function, and elimination of damaged or potentially harmful cells.

Unlike necrosis, which is a form of uncontrolled cell death that results from injury or disease and often leads to inflammation, apoptosis is a highly regulated mechanism that ensures cells die in a way that is orderly and contained. The process involves a cascade of specific signaling pathways and can be triggered by various factors, including developmental cues, signals from other cells, or internal signals such as DNA damage. Understanding apoptosis has significant implications in fields like cancer research, where the evasion of apoptosis by tumor cells is a common occurrence, impacting treatment strategies.