apoptotic bodies are phagocytized without the process of
Apoptosis The removal of dead cells by neighboring phagocytic cells has been termed efferocytosis.[62] Dying cells that undergo the final stages of apoptosis display phagocytotic molecules, such as phosphatidylserine, on their cell surface.[63] Phosphatidylserine is normally found on the inner leaflet surface of the plasma membrane, but is redistributed during apoptosis to the extracellular surface by a protein known as scramblase.[64] These molecules mark the cell for phagocytosis by cells possessing the appropriate receptors, such as macrophages.[65] The removal of dying cells by phagocytes occurs in an orderly manner without eliciting an inflammatory response.[66] During apoptosis cellular RNA and DNA are separated from each other and sorted to different apoptotic bodies; separation of RNA is initiated as nucleolar segregation.[67]