sejtkárosodást

Sejtkárosodás, also known as cellular damage, refers to any form of injury or impairment to a cell's structure or function. This damage can occur due to a wide range of internal and external factors. Internal causes can include genetic mutations, metabolic errors, and the accumulation of cellular waste products. External factors encompass physical agents like radiation, extreme temperatures, and mechanical trauma, as well as chemical agents such as toxins and pollutants. Biological factors like infectious agents (viruses, bacteria) can also induce cellular damage.

The consequences of cellular damage vary greatly depending on the type, extent, and duration of the insult, as well as the cell's ability to repair itself. Mild or transient damage might be reversible, with the cell returning to its normal state after the stressor is removed. However, severe or prolonged damage can lead to irreversible changes, resulting in cell death through various mechanisms, including apoptosis (programmed cell death) or necrosis (uncontrolled cell death).

Cellular damage plays a crucial role in the development of numerous diseases and the aging process. For instance, DNA damage can lead to cancer, while damage to mitochondria can contribute to neurodegenerative disorders. The body has sophisticated repair mechanisms to counteract cellular damage, but as these mechanisms decline with age or are overwhelmed by excessive damage, the cumulative effects can impair tissue and organ function, ultimately affecting overall health and longevity. Understanding the mechanisms of sejtkárosodás is therefore fundamental to comprehending disease pathogenesis and developing therapeutic interventions.