Which is an example of apoptosis in fetal development?

Apoptosis, also known as programmed cell death, plays a crucial role in fetal development by shaping various structures in the developing organism. An example of this is the loss of webbing between digits, which occurs through a controlled process of cell death.

During early fetal development, the hands and feet of the embryo initially form with a webbed appearance. In order for the fingers and toes to differentiate and develop properly, the cells in the areas of webbing must undergo apoptosis. This regulated elimination of cells removes the excess tissue, leading to the formation of separate digits instead of webbed ones. This is a vital process that ensures proper morphology and function of limbs.

Other options, while they may involve cellular events, do not exemplify the specific process of apoptosis related to creating or refining anatomical features during fetal development in the same way. Therefore, the loss of webbing between digits is a clear representation of how apoptosis is essential for proper development, making it the correct choice.