APOPTOSIS AT THE CELLULAR LEVEL REGULATION AND ITS ROLE IN PATHOLOGY

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the cellular processes of apoptosis, its molecular mechanisms, and its role in the life activity of the organism. Apoptosis is genetically programmed cell death that plays an important role in maintaining tissue homeostasis throughout life, starting from embryonic development. During this process, cells are systematically broken down and eliminated without causing damage to surrounding tissues. The article discusses the main pathways of apoptosis intrinsic (mitochondrial) and extrinsic (receptor-mediated) mechanismsas well as regulatory proteins, particularly caspases, members of the Bcl-2 family, and various signaling molecules. In addition, the roles of oxidative stress, DNA damage, and intracellular signaling systems in activating apoptosis are briefly analyzed. Disorders of apoptosis are closely associated with various pathological conditions. Its insufficient activation may lead to uncontrolled cell proliferation and tumor development, whereas excessive activation may result in excessive cell loss in neurological and degenerative diseases. Thus, the article highlights apoptosis as a finely regulated cellular process, its role in maintaining physiological balance in the organism, and its significance in the pathogenesis of various diseases.