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Updated: Jul 11, 2026

Identification of Intracellular Signaling Events Induced in Viable Cells by Interaction with Neighboring Cells Undergoing Apoptotic Cell Death
Published on: December 27, 2016
Death receptors and apoptosis
Emmanuel Contassot1, Olivier Gaide, Lars E French
1Department of Dermatology, Zurich University Hospital, Gloriastrasse 31, 8091 Zürich, Switzerland.
Abstract:
Interactions between death receptors from the tumor necrosis factor superfamily and their ligands play a crucial role in the development and the integrity of the epidermis. The major consequence resulting from death receptor targeting is apoptosis. Evidence for dysregulation of death receptor signaling associated with the pathogenesis of selected cutaneous diseases, including toxic epidermal necrolysis, graft versus host disease, and skin cancer, are reviewed herein.
Insights
Tumor necrosis factor death receptors are vital for skin health and trigger apoptosis. Their dysregulation is linked to skin diseases like toxic epidermal necrolysis, graft versus host disease, and skin cancer.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Death receptors (DRs) and their ligands, part of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) superfamily, are critical for epidermal development and maintenance.
- Targeting DRs primarily induces apoptosis, a key cellular process.
- Dysregulation of DR signaling is implicated in various skin pathologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of death receptor signaling in the pathogenesis of specific cutaneous diseases.
- To highlight the connection between aberrant DR signaling and skin conditions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on death receptor signaling pathways.
- Analysis of evidence linking DR dysregulation to specific dermatological conditions.
Main Results:
- Death receptor interactions are essential for epidermal homeostasis.
- Apoptosis is the primary outcome of DR activation.
- Evidence supports the involvement of DR signaling dysregulation in toxic epidermal necrolysis, graft versus host disease, and skin cancer.
Conclusions:
- Death receptor signaling is a critical factor in skin biology.
- Aberrant DR pathways contribute significantly to the development of severe skin diseases.
- Understanding these interactions offers insights into potential therapeutic targets for cutaneous disorders.
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