How do caspase enzymes dismantle a cell during apoptosis?

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During the execution phase of apoptosis, caspase proteolytic enzymes act as the primary drivers of cellular dismantling once the death decision has been confirmed.1

These enzymes function largely by activating other enzymes that systematically break down the cell's internal structures. Specifically, they facilitate the destruction of the cytoskeleton and cellular organelles, while also triggering the degradation of nuclear DNA, ensuring the process is irreversible.1

Following this degradation, the cell’s membrane system reorganizes to package the resulting components into membrane-bound compartments. This orderly packaging prevents the release of cellular contents into surrounding tissues. Finally, these packets are engulfed and processed for reuse by macrophages or neighboring cells, completing the clean disposal of the cell.1