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Molecular mechanisms of gasdermin D pore-forming activity
Pascal Devant1, Jonathan C Kagan2
1Division of Gastroenterology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
Abstract:
The regulated disruption of the plasma membrane, which can promote cell death, cytokine secretion or both is central to organismal health. The protein gasdermin D (GSDMD) is a key player in this process. GSDMD forms membrane pores that can promote cytolysis and the release of interleukin-1 family cytokines into the extracellular space. Recent discoveries have revealed biochemical and cell biological mechanisms that control GSDMD pore-forming activity and its diverse downstream immunological effects. Here, we review these multifaceted regulatory activities, including mechanisms of GSDMD activation by proteolytic cleavage, dynamics of pore assembly, regulation of GSDMD activities by posttranslational modifications, membrane repair and the interplay of GSDMD and mitochondria. We also address recent insights into the evolution of the gasdermin family and their activities in species across the kingdoms of life. In doing so, we hope to condense recent progress and inform future studies in this rapidly moving field in immunology.
Insights
Gasdermin D (GSDMD) protein regulates plasma membrane pores, impacting cell death and immune responses. This review details GSDMD
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Regulated plasma membrane disruption is vital for health, involving cell death and cytokine release.
- Gasdermin D (GSDMD) protein forms pores, driving cytolysis and interleukin-1 family cytokine release.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in understanding GSDMD's regulatory mechanisms.
- To explore GSDMD's role in diverse immunological effects and its evolution.
Main Methods:
- Review of biochemical and cell biological literature on GSDMD.
- Analysis of GSDMD activation, pore assembly, and posttranslational modifications.
- Examination of GSDMD interactions with membrane repair and mitochondria.
Main Results:
- GSDMD activation involves proteolytic cleavage and dynamic pore assembly.
- Posttranslational modifications and interactions with cellular components regulate GSDMD.
- Gasdermin family evolution and function across species are discussed.
Conclusions:
- GSDMD is a critical regulator of membrane integrity and immune signaling.
- Understanding GSDMD regulation is key to advancing immunology and potential therapeutics.
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