Diseases and Conditions Affecting the Cells and Tissues

Cellular Injury and Death

The structure of the cell as a whole and each individual cell part is required for homeostatic balance and ultimately the life of the cell. Every condition that affects the human organism originates in the cell. This does not imply that the cell is not capable of withstanding stress. The cells of the human body are fit and respond to a number of stressors by adapting to the environment. Some cellular adaptations or injuries are reversible and some are irreversible. Let's take a look at some examples.

Now, let's take a look at why it is important to understand the conditions affecting the cell.

Disease Modelling with Cells Video

Defects in Cellular Production

In a healthy cell, cellular division is strictly controlled through the process of mitosis.

Cellular division is controlled by both internal and external factors. These factors include hormones and space availability. Adequate cell division is vital to the maintenance of homeostasis in the human species. Infrequent mitosis affects tissue growth while too frequent mitosis leads to an overproduction of tissue.

Watch the video below to learn about cell division, tumor growth, and metastasis.

Cell Division, Tumor Growth, and Metastasis Video

Aging and the Human Organism

The effects of aging occur at the cellular level, expanding to the tissues, organs, and body systems. Aging affects the overall function of the entire human body. Cells become larger and production slows significantly. The once young, efficient cell that kept its home squeaky clean, inside and out, has A quote from Benjamin Franklin: "Everyone wants to live a long time, but no one wants to be old." evolved into a tired slouch. The aging cell has a lifetime build-up of fatty substances and waste products. This causes tissue changes including stiffness, rigidity, and loss of tissue mass (atrophy).

The effects of the aging cell contribute to the development of disease properties in the associated tissues and organs.

Let's take a look at research scientists are working on to combat the aging process within the cells.

Aging Process With Cells Video

Cells Review

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