PCD

PCD stands for programmed cell death. This happens when a cell is in a state of poor health/disrepair, so release of special proteins (like cytochrome c - found in mitochondria) either from inside of the cell or by another cell, triggers an organized chain reaction of events, resulting in the degradation and destruction of proteins and nucleic acids inside the cell.
The genes responsible for the proteins that signal PCD are not working correctly in cancer cells.

Bob "Have you heard that cells can commit suicide?"
Pete "No"
Bob "This is also referred to as PCD, or apoptosis"
Pete "Is that going to be on the finals?"
Bob "Definitely!"

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