Characterization and biological importance of apoptosis. Typical micromorphological hallmarks of apoptosis and phases of the apoptosis process. Apoptotic signaling. Perforin-granzyme apoptotic pathway. Death receptor-mediated apoptotic pathways. Apoptosome apoptotic pathway. Apoptotic pathways triggered from mitochondria, lysosomes and endoplasmic reticulum. PIDDosome apoptotic pathway. Dependosomes. Apoptotic protein substrates and fragmentation of genomic DNA. Mechanisms of regulation of initiation and course of apoptosis. Clearance of apoptotic cells and bodies. Malfunctions of initiation and course of apoptosis. Diseases caused or associated by apoptosis disorders.