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Published on: April 24, 2011
Molecular definitions of cell death subroutines: recommendations of the Nomenclature Committee on Cell Death 2012
L Galluzzi1, I Vitale, J M Abrams
1INSERM U848, Apoptosis, Cancer and Immunity, Villejuif, France.
Abstract:
In 2009, the Nomenclature Committee on Cell Death (NCCD) proposed a set of recommendations for the definition of distinct cell death morphologies and for the appropriate use of cell death-related terminology, including 'apoptosis', 'necrosis' and 'mitotic catastrophe'. In view of the substantial progress in the biochemical and genetic exploration of cell death, time has come to switch from morphological to molecular definitions of cell death modalities. Here we propose a functional classification of cell death subroutines that applies to both in vitro and in vivo settings and includes extrinsic apoptosis, caspase-dependent or -independent intrinsic apoptosis, regulated necrosis, autophagic cell death and mitotic catastrophe. Moreover, we discuss the utility of expressions indicating additional cell death modalities. On the basis of the new, revised NCCD classification, cell death subroutines are defined by a series of precise, measurable biochemical features.
Insights
The Nomenclature Committee on Cell Death (NCCD) updated cell death definitions from morphology to molecular mechanisms. This revised classification provides precise, measurable biochemical features for distinct cell death subroutines.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- The 2009 Nomenclature Committee on Cell Death (NCCD) recommendations focused on morphological definitions of cell death.
- Advances in biochemical and genetic research necessitate a shift towards molecular definitions for cell death modalities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a revised, functional classification of cell death subroutines based on molecular mechanisms.
- To establish precise, measurable biochemical features for defining cell death modalities in both in vitro and in vivo settings.
Main Methods:
- Development of a functional classification system for cell death subroutines.
- Integration of molecular and biochemical criteria for defining cell death.
- Review and revision of existing cell death terminology.
Main Results:
- A new classification including extrinsic apoptosis, intrinsic apoptosis (caspase-dependent and -independent), regulated necrosis, autophagic cell death, and mitotic catastrophe.
- Definition of cell death subroutines based on specific, quantifiable biochemical characteristics.
- Discussion of additional cell death modalities and their functional relevance.
Conclusions:
- The revised NCCD classification shifts focus from morphology to molecular definitions of cell death.
- This functional classification provides a standardized framework for studying cell death mechanisms.
- Precise biochemical features enable accurate identification and characterization of diverse cell death pathways.
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