Which of the following changes is NOT associated with apoptosis?

In the context of apoptosis, which is a regulated form of cell death characterized by distinct morphological and biochemical changes, it is key to understand the typical cellular events that occur. Among the choices provided, cell swelling is not typically associated with apoptosis; instead, it is a hallmark of another type of cell death known as necrosis.

During apoptosis, the process involves several specific changes: the nuclear envelope disassembles, allowing the fragmentation of DNA; the cytoskeleton collapses, leading to the rounding of the cell; and blebbing occurs, where portions of the cell membrane bulge outward. These changes contribute to the orderly and controlled disassembly of the cell, allowing for the safe removal of apoptotic bodies without causing inflammation.

In contrast, cell swelling, which can entail an increase in cell volume and a loss of membrane integrity, is associated with necrosis and not with the programmed and highly regulated process of apoptosis. Thus, the correct answer is grounded in the understanding of these distinct pathways and their respective characteristics.