The above response addressed positive advantages; as for disadvantages: When defective apoptotic processes occur, an extensive variety of diseases can result. Too *much* apoptosis causes cell loss disorders, whereas too little results in uncontrolled cell proliferation [read: cancerous tumors]. As outlined on Wikipedia -"Apoptosis can occur, for instance, when a cell is damaged beyond repair, or infected with a virus. The "decision" for apoptosis can come from the cell itself, from its surrounding tissue or from a cell that is part of the immune system. If a cell's capability of apoptosis is damaged (for example, by mutation), or if the initiation of apoptosis is blocked (by a virus), a damaged cell can continue dividing without restrictions, developing into cancer. For example, as part of the hijacking of the cell's genetic system carried out by human papillomaviruses (HPV), a gene called E6 is expressed in a product that degrades p53 protein, which is a vital piece of the apoptotic pathway. This severe interference in the apoptotic capability of cells plays a critical role in the fact that persistent infection by oncogenic HPVs can result in the development of cervical cancer." Also, the Hgg protein, which conveys an anti-apoptotic signal, has been found to be overexpressed in pancreatic adenocarcinoma tissues.
2006-06-30 07:22:55
·
answer #1
·
answered by Endo 6
·
2⤊
0⤋
It is crucial for your health.
Apoptosis helps proper development of limbs, organs,etc.
Also, once a cell's DNA has undergone too much damage to be repaired the cell commits apoptosis for the shake of the rest of the organism.
The way apoptosis takes place is such that the dead cell doesn't trigger an inflammatory response.
So I don't really see any disadvantages.
2006-06-29 23:05:34
·
answer #2
·
answered by bellerophon 6
·
0⤊
0⤋