Question: What happens to dead cells?

Matthew Tomlinson answered on 3 Jan 2014:

Hi kattypuss

As a cell is dying by programmed cell death (apoptosis) it presents molecules on its outer surface which can be recognised by other cells, for example macrophages. These cells then swallow the dead cells, which is called phagocytosis. During this step the dead cells get held in a bubble inside the other cell, this is so that the dead cells don’t break open and release any potentially harmful chemicals into the body. Once the dead cell is inside the larger cell it is then broken up by enzymes and the contents of the dead cell can either be removed or used in other processes.

For necrosis, which is when a cell dies in an uncontrolled way, like an injury, then this process doesn’t work as well. This is because there is a large inflammatory response which stops the cells like macrophages getting to all the dead cells. Sometimes in this situation the dead tissue needs to be removed surgically.

I hope that answers your question!