Programmed cell death pathway
nounPronunciation: /proʊˈɡræmd sɛl dɛθ ˈpæθˌweɪ/
A genetically regulated process of controlled cellular suicide (apoptosis) that plants activate in response to severe abiotic stress to eliminate irreversibly damaged or infected cells while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues. This selective elimination prevents pathogen spread and salvages resources from compromised cells.
Plain English
A controlled death process that plants trigger in specific cells to prevent spreading damage from stress or infection to healthy tissues.
Etymology & History
Usage
"Plants exposed to extreme heat activate programmed cell death pathways in thermally damaged leaf tissues to prevent systemic spread of dysfunction."
Style guide notes: Use 'programmed cell death' or 'apoptosis' interchangeably in plant biology; specify plant-specific pathways when necessary.
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Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
How is plant apoptosis different from necrosis?
Apoptosis is controlled and contained; necrosis is uncontrolled rupture that damages neighboring cells and causes inflammation.
What triggers plant programmed cell death?
Severe stress conditions including extreme temperature, hypoxia, pathogen infection, and irremediable cellular damage activate death pathways.
Why Test Candidates on This?
Significant for understanding plant stress response mechanisms and cellular-level adaptations to extreme abiotic conditions.
Required skill level: Senior