The document summarizes apoptosis or programmed cell death. It describes apoptosis as a normal and important process where cells actively commit suicide through a gene-directed process. During apoptosis, cells shrink, break up into apoptotic bodies and are eliminated in a way that does not cause damage or inflammation. Apoptosis is mediated by caspase enzymes and involves degradation of DNA and proteins. It plays a key role in development, tissue homeostasis, and killing of damaged cells.