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Pyroptosis: a new therapeutic strategy in cancer
1Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, 06100, Sıhhiye-Ankara, Turkey. metuncer@hacettepe.edu.tr.
Abstract:
Programmed cell death pathways play important roles in a wide variety of physiological processes. Although it has similarities with apoptosis pyroptosis is a different type of programmed cell death. Pyroptosis can be triggered by different molecules originating from the cells or their environment. Once a pyroptotic pathway is started, it is followed by different molecular steps, and, it ends with the disruption of cell membrane integrity and the onset of inflammatory processes. In addition to the role of pyroptosis in the host's innate immunity against pathogens, uncontrolled pyroptosis can lead to increased inflammation and lead various diseases. The contradictory role of pyroptosis-related molecular changes in the pathogenesis of cancer has attracted attention lately. Excessive or decreased expression of molecules involved in pyroptotic pathways is associated with various cancers. There are ongoing studies on the use of different treatment methods for cancer in combination with new therapies targeting pyroptosis. The potential beneficial effects or side-effect profiles of these protocols targeting pyroptosis still need to be investigated. This will provide us with more efficient and safer options to treat cancer. This review aims to overview the main pathways and mechanisms of pyroptosis and to discuss its role in cancer.
Insights
Pyroptosis is a programmed cell death pathway crucial for immunity but can cause inflammation and disease. Its role in cancer pathogenesis is complex, with ongoing research into pyroptosis-targeting therapies for improved cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Cellular Biology
- Immunology
- Oncology
Background:
- Programmed cell death pathways are vital for physiological processes.
- Pyroptosis, distinct from apoptosis, involves cell membrane disruption and inflammation.
- Dysregulated pyroptosis contributes to various diseases and cancer pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the primary pathways and mechanisms of pyroptosis.
- To discuss the multifaceted role of pyroptosis in cancer development and progression.
- To explore emerging therapeutic strategies targeting pyroptosis in oncology.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of programmed cell death mechanisms.
- Analysis of molecular pathways involved in pyroptosis.
- Examination of pyroptosis's role in cancer pathogenesis and treatment.
Main Results:
- Pyroptosis triggers inflammatory responses and is implicated in host defense.
- Aberrant pyroptosis signaling, including altered molecular expression, is linked to various cancers.
- Targeting pyroptosis presents a promising avenue for novel cancer therapies.
Conclusions:
- Pyroptosis is a critical inflammatory cell death pathway with a dual role in disease.
- Understanding pyroptosis mechanisms is essential for developing targeted cancer treatments.
- Further investigation is needed to optimize pyroptosis-targeting therapies for cancer, balancing efficacy and safety.
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