<prompt> Characteristic feature of apoptosis -Cell membrane intactCytoplasmic eosinophiliaNuclear mouldingCell swelling  <response>: Ans. is a i.e., Cell membrane intact o No option is exactly correct in this question, as chromatin condensation is the most characteristic feature of apoptosis. o But, we have to choose one option anyways. o Amongst the given options two features are seen in apoptosis : ? Option a -- Cell membrane intact Option b --- Cytoplasmic eosinophilia o Cytoplasmic eosinophilia is not characteristic feature of apoptosis; cytoplasmic eosinophilia is also seen in necrosis. o On the other hand Intact cell membrane is a striking feature of apoptosis and it differentiates apoptosis from necrosis in which cell membrane is damaged o Most characteristic feature of apoptosis o Earliest change of apoptosis o End stage of apoptosis o Most striking feature of apoptosis - Chromatin condensation Pyknosis - Cell shrinkage --- Formation of cytoplasmic blebs apoptotic bodies. - Absence of inflammation. 