Intrinsic pathway of apoptosis

The intrinsic pathway of apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is a process that occurs within a cell when it is damaged or under stress. It is triggered by internal signals, such as DNA damage or loss of growth factors. This pathway leads to the activation of proteins called caspases, which are the executioners of apoptosis. They dismantle the cell's components, leading to controlled self-destruction. This process is crucial for maintaining healthy tissues by removing cells that could become harmful, such as those with potential cancerous changes, and helps in development and immune responses.