Word of the week: Necrosis

Danse Macabre, Create Undead, Finger of Death. These are iconic necromancy spells from Dungeons & Dragons. It invokes an imagery of death and spooks of foul magic at work even to those foreign to this TTRPG platform.

In cell biology, necrosis refers to the one of two main forms of cell death, necrosis is uncontrolled cell death due to exposure to stressful stimuli. Common triggers for necrosis include harsh chemicals (such as toxins and strong acid), stressful physical conditions (extremely high temperature and/or pressure) and sometimes, infection agents, the list goes on.

As a result of necrosis the cell’s membrane ruptures, and all its contents spills out, bits and pieces of proteins and other matter. Think of popping a water balloon, its causes a big mess. Necrosis often triggers inflammatory responses, which may result in chain-reaction necrosis among nearby cells. IT'S A CELLULAR MASSACRE!

So next time, when warding you house from treats like vampire lords and necromancer covens, remember that necrosis can be devastating to you and your cells. But until next time, enjoy your Halloween.