A researcher observes cells undergoing programmed cell death characterized by cell shrinkage, chromatin condensation, DNA fragmentation into nucleosome-sized units, and formation of apoptotic bodies, all without significant inflammation. This process is best described as what?

✓ Correct Answer: Option C

Apoptosis is programmed cell death characterized by cell shrinkage, chromatin condensation, DNA fragmentation, and formation of apoptotic bodies, without eliciting an inflammatory response. This distinguishes it from necrosis, which involves cell swelling and inflammation.