PANoptosis in cancer: bridging molecular mechanisms to therapeutic innovations

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Cell Death Research

Background:

• PANoptosis is a novel inflammatory programmed cell death pathway implicated in cancer.
• It involves PANoptosome complex formation, activating multiple cell death pathways and enhancing immunogenic cell death.
• PANoptosis plays a role in overcoming tumor immune evasion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current research on PANoptosis in cancer.
• To explore its clinical significance, mechanistic insights, and therapeutic potential.
• To highlight PANoptosis as a target for improving cancer treatment outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of current research on PANoptosis in cancer.
• Analysis of clinical data regarding PANoptosis-related signatures.
• Examination of mechanistic studies on PANoptosis signaling and its interaction with the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME).
• Evaluation of therapeutic strategies targeting PANoptosis.

Main Results:

• PANoptosis-related signatures have clinical value in predicting survival, TIME characteristics, and therapeutic response.
• PANoptosis influences tumor behavior through dynamic interactions with TIME components.
• Targeting PANoptosis, including via nanomedicine, shows promising preclinical anti-tumor efficacy, especially when combined with conventional therapies.

Conclusions:

• PANoptosis is a promising therapeutic target for reshaping the TIME and overcoming treatment resistance in cancer.
• Modulating PANoptosis can enhance the efficacy of radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.
• Future research should focus on understanding PANoptosome regulation for precision oncology strategies.