Cell death-associated molecular-pattern molecules: inflammatory signaling and control

Area of Science:

• Cellular Biology
• Immunology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Cellular death, including apoptosis, necroptosis, and pyroptosis, is a consequence of various stressors like infection, injury, and chemotherapy.
• Dying cells release endogenous factors such as cell death-associated molecular patterns (CDAMP), damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMP), and alarmins.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of emerging concepts and mechanisms of inflammation triggered by massive cell death.
• To elucidate the role of CDAMP, DAMP, and alarmins in initiating and maintaining tissue inflammation.

Main Methods:

• Review of current scientific literature on cellular death pathways and inflammatory mediators.
• Analysis of the signaling pathways involving inflammasomes and NF-κB activation.
• Examination of the role of nonprotein thiols, thiol-regulating enzymes, and reactive oxygen/nitrogen species in modulating inflammation.

Main Results:

• Cell death releases various endogenous molecules (CDAMP, DAMP, alarmins) that act as inflammatory mediators.
• These molecules bind to specific receptors, activating signaling pathways like inflammasomes and NF-κB.
• Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, along with thiol compounds, are crucial in controlling the pro- and anti-inflammatory activities of these released factors.

Conclusions:

• Massive cell death triggers complex inflammatory responses mediated by released cellular components.
• The interplay between CDAMP/DAMP/alarmins and reactive species is essential for regulating inflammation and maintaining tissue homeostasis.
• Understanding these mechanisms is key to addressing inflammatory conditions associated with cell death.