Some cells with dense, darkly stained chromatin in tissues with high rates of cell turnover are undergoing programmed cell death (apoptosis) rather than mitosis.

• The two processes can be difficult to distinguish in routinely stained slides.
• Apoptosis and mitosis generally occur in different regions of tissues.
• Examine the small intestine, looking for pyknotic cells near the tips of the projecting villi.
• The sequence of events leading to apoptosis is also initiated when a cell’s nuclear DNA is damaged beyond repair.

What are some differences in the appearance of mitotic and apoptotic cells?

Let's now take a look at intercellular junctions and epithelial.