Mechanisms of pyroptosis in vitiligo

Vitiligo is a common depigmentation disorder characterized by the loss of skin pigmentation, resulting in white patches on the skin. The pathogenesis of vitiligo involves complex interactions between genetic, immunological and environmental factors. Recent studies have implicated pyroptosis, a form of programmed cell death, in the development and progression of vitiligo. Pyroptosis is characterized by the activation of inflammatory caspases, such as caspase-1, leading to cell lysis and the release of inflammatory cytokines. This process has been linked to the melanocytes and other cells within local microenvironment, as well as immune response observed in vitiligo, This review explores the mechanisms underlying pyroptosis and its implications for the physiological alterations in melanocytes and keratinocytes during vitiligo pathogenesis. Furthermore, we also summaries the crosstalk between pyroptosis and other pathogenic mechanisms in vitiligo. These findings not only enhance our understanding of melanocyte death but also suggest novel therapeutic targets for vitiligo.