Research progress on microglial pyroptosis and inflammasomes: a comprehensive analysis

Xiaofang Wang1, Zhenyu Li2, Bingxiang Ma3,4

  • 1Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, China.

PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Microglial pyroptosis and inflammasome activation are key in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Research is rapidly advancing, with China and the US leading studies on mechanisms and potential therapies.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Immunology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Microglial pyroptosis and inflammasome activation are implicated in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and multiple sclerosis (MS).
  • Understanding the mechanisms, diagnostics, and prognostics of these processes is crucial for developing effective treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the current research landscape, identify key hotspots, and determine emerging trends in the study of microglial pyroptosis and inflammasomes in neurodegenerative diseases.

Main Methods:

  • A bibliometric analysis of 958 articles published over the past decade was conducted using the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database.
  • High-impact articles were examined to identify influential institutions, journals, and research themes.

Main Results:

  • China (664 articles) and the United States (147 articles) are the leading countries in publications and research influence.
  • Southern Medical University (China) and the Journal of Neuroinflammation are the most prolific and influential contributors.
  • Recent research hotspots include "depression," "cell death," "recovery," and "pathogenesis," with a focus on therapeutic strategies like MCC950, quercetin, MicroRNA-7, and melatonin.

Conclusions:

  • Microglial pyroptosis and inflammasome research is a rapidly growing field, with significant contributions from China and the US.
  • Current research focuses on understanding pathological mechanisms and exploring novel therapeutic interventions for neurodegenerative diseases.
  • Future directions include mechanism elucidation, disease specificity, dynamic regulation, targeted interventions, and clinical translation for improved patient outcomes.

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