Review Programmed cell clearance

Apoptosis, a physiological process of self-an- nihilation, is essential during development and for the maintenance of tissue homeostasis. Considerable efforts have been made in recent years to elucidate the molecu- lar mechanisms that govern this mode of cellular demise; however, the subsequent recognition and removal of apoptotic corpses by neighboring phagocytes has re- ceived less attention. Nevertheless, macrophage engulf- ment of apoptotic cells is known to be important in the re- modeling of tissues, and contributes to the resolution of inflammation through the removal of effete cells prior to