The role of lysosome-dependent cell death in cancer

Lysosome-dependent cell death (LDCD) is a distinct mode of regulated cell death, which differs from canonical cell death pathways such as apoptosis and necrosis. Its key features include lysosomal membrane permeabilization and the downstream signaling cascades triggered by cathepsin release. Recent studies have demonstrated that LDCD exerts dual, intricate influences on cancer initiation, progression, immune homeostasis and therapeutic responses. It not only confers a survival advantage upon cancer cells but also represents a promising target for targeted antitumor therapy. This review systematically summarizes the molecular mechanisms underlying LDCD, its dual regulatory roles in cancer, and LDCD-based anticancer therapeutic strategies, and outlines future research directions. Ultimately, this work sheds light on the mechanistic link between LDCD and oncogenesis, providing a rationale for the development of targeted antitumor strategies.