Efferocytosis is the process by which phagocytes recognize, engulf, and degrade dying cells before they undergo secondary necrosis. Clearance of apoptotic cells is the most typical form of efferocytosis and involves phagocyte recruitment, phosphatidylserine recognition, phagocytic receptor ...
The DNA of apoptotic cells is cut into fragments of about 200 base pairs under the action of caspase-activated nuclease (CAD), forming DNA ladders. By detecting DNA fragmentation during apoptosis, the degree of apoptosis can be evaluated.