Cell Dysfunction

All organic bodies --- plant, animal and human --- are composed of cells. These are the small compartments in tissue that perform specific functions according to instructions from DNA. The cells engage in functions for the benefit of maintaining life for the living organism.

Normal Cell Function

• Different cells have different roles, but all engage in a similar process of growth and basic functioning. Cells take in nutrients, moisture and oxygen and expel waste. Cells also reproduce themselves with genetically identical cells that have normal growth cycles. The HealthLibrary notes that every day a number of cells die as others take their place in physiological functions. Some cells have instructions to divide in order to create new cells, while others don't.

Causes of Dysfunction

• In addition to responding to DNA instructions, cells also respond to environmental conditions that occur in or out of the living organism. Stress from extreme temperatures, injury, disease, dehydration, starvation of vital nutrients, cell overcrowding and oxidation cause cells to dysfunction, or not work properly. Cells begin deterioration at the time of death.

Types of Dysfunction

• When cells fail to function properly, the effects may be barely noticeable or create health major problems. Abnormal or rapid cell growth are dysfunctions that lead to conditions such as psoriasis, endometriosis and cancer. Cell deterioration leads to a number of conditions related to the breakdown of vital organs and leads to a faster overall aging process.