Mitochondrial ROS promotes susceptibility to infection via gasdermin D-mediated necroptosis

Disruption of the caspase-1/IL-1β axis alleviates myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion injury via improvement of mitochondrial homeostasis and reduction of Pyroptosis

BACKGROUND

Pyroptosis is a novel kind of programmed cell death and Caspase-1 plays key roles in driving pyroptosis. The current study aims to elucidate the molecular mechanism affecting cardiomyocyte pyroptosis in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, both in vivo and in vitro.

METHODS

A murine model of myocardial I/R injury was established and then treated with lentivirus-mediated shRNA targeting Caspase-1 to evaluate the effect of Caspase-1 on myocardial I/R injury. Further, Caspase-1 was silenced in the cardiomyocytes following hypoxia-reoxygenation (H/R) to detect the function of Caspase-1 in mitochondrial homeostasis and cardiomyocyte pyroptosis.

RESULTS

Knockdown of Caspase-1 inhibited the secretion of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), improved cardiac dysfunction and decreased pyroptosis in vivo. The cardio-protective effect was verified in the H/R-induced cardiomyocyte model. Recombinant IL-1β protein reversed the inhibitory effect of Caspase-1 knockdown on pyroptosis.

CONCLUSION

Overall, activating the Caspase-1/IL-1β axis by myocardial I/R injury causes mitochondrial homeostasis imbalance, pyroptosis, and the consequent cardiomyocyte injury.

Neuronal regulated cell death in aging-related neurodegenerative diseases: key pathways and therapeutic potentials

Regulated cell death (such as apoptosis, necroptosis, pyroptosis, autophagy, cuproptosis, ferroptosis, disulfidptosis) involves complex signaling pathways and molecular effectors, and has been proven to be an important regulatory mechanism for regulating neuronal aging and death. However, excessive activation of regulated cell death may lead to the progression of aging-related diseases. This review summarizes recent advances in the understanding of seven forms of regulated cell death in age-related diseases. Notably, the newly identified ferroptosis and cuproptosis have been implicated in the risk of cognitive impairment and neurodegenerative diseases. These forms of cell death exacerbate disease progression by promoting inflammation, oxidative stress, and pathological protein aggregation. The review also provides an overview of key signaling pathways and crosstalk mechanisms among these regulated cell death forms, with a focus on ferroptosis, cuproptosis, and disulfidptosis. For instance, FDX1 directly induces cuproptosis by regulating copper ion valency and dihydrolipoamide S-acetyltransferase aggregation, while copper mediates glutathione peroxidase 4 degradation, enhancing ferroptosis sensitivity. Additionally, inhibiting the Xc- transport system to prevent ferroptosis can increase disulfide formation and shift the NADP + /NADPH ratio, transitioning ferroptosis to disulfidptosis. These insights help to uncover the potential connections among these novel regulated cell death forms and differentiate them from traditional regulated cell death mechanisms. In conclusion, identifying key targets and their crosstalk points among various regulated cell death pathways may aid in developing specific biomarkers to reverse the aging clock and treat age-related neurodegenerative conditions.

Necroptosis: a significant and promising target for intervention of cardiovascular disease

Due to changes in dietary structures, population aging, and the exacerbation of metabolic risk factors, the incidence of cardiovascular disease continues to rise annually, posing a significant health burden worldwide. Cell death plays a crucial role in the onset and progression of cardiovascular diseases. As a regulated endpoint encountered by cells under adverse stress conditions, the execution of necroptosis is regulated by classicalpathways, the calmodulin-dependent protein kinases (CaMK) pathway, and mitochondria-dependent pathways, and implicated in various cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI), heart failure, diabetic cardiomyopathy, dilated cardiomyopathy, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, chemotherapy drug-induced cardiomyopathy, and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). To further investigate potential therapeutic targets for cardiovascular diseases, we also analyzed the main molecules and their inhibitors involved in necroptosis in an effort to uncover insights for treatment.

NLRP3 activation promotes cGAS/STING signaling and antitumor immunity by colorectal cancer cells

INTRODUCTION

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a highly prevalent and deadly disease that is largely refractory to immunotherapy. The only CRC subset that responds to these therapies is characterized by prevalent microsatellite instability (MSI), extensive  CD8+ T cell infiltration and high expression of innate immune signaling pathways. Endogenous activation of the cGAS/STING pathway is essential for this CD8+ T cell antitumor response in MSI CRCs, suggesting that activating it in other CRCs could boost immunotherapy response rates. In contrast, activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome is typically associated with tumor-promoting inflammation although this has primarily been studied in immune cells.

METHODS

We used a mixture of flow cytometry, activation assays, in vivo orthotopic models and patient-derived organoids to investigate the effect of NLRP3 activation in CRC cells on cGAS/STING-mediated antitumor immunity.

RESULTS

Our results show that activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome specifically in CRC cells boosts cGAS/STING signaling in both MSI and non-MSI CRCs and that dual stimulation increases CD8+ T cell-mediated antitumor immunity. The ability of NLRP3 to enhance cGAS/STING signaling was specific and did not occur with activation of other innate immune pathways such as AIM2 or TLRs. Enhancement of cGAS/STING signaling by NLRP3 proceeded via a positive feedback loop that was inflammasome-independent and required early crosstalk between the signaling mediators and regulation of their gene expression.

CONCLUSIONS

Activation of NLRP3 specifically in CRC cells could be a promising strategy to boost antitumor immunity in otherwise immunotherapy resistant CRCs.

Molecular mechanism of PANoptosis and programmed cell death in neurological diseases

PANoptosis represents a highly coordinated inflammatory programmed cell death governed by the assembly and activation of PANoptosome, which strategically integrate core molecular elements from pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis. The triple-component cell death pathways set themselves apart from alternative regulated cell death mechanisms through their unique capacity to concurrently integrate and process molecular signals derived from multiple death-signaling modalities, thereby coordinating a multifaceted cellular defense system against diverse pathological insults. Pathogen-associated molecular patterns synergistically interact with cytokine storms, and oncogenic stress to active PANoptosis, establishing this programmed cell death pathway as a critical nexus in inflammatory pathogenesis and tumor immunomodulation. This molecular crosstalk highlights PANoptosis as a promising therapeutic target for managing immune-related disorders and malignant transformation. Emerging evidence links PANoptosis to neuroinflammatory disorders through dysregulated crosstalk between programmed death pathways (apoptosis, necroptosis, pyroptosis) and accidental necrosis, driving neuronal loss and neural damage. Single-cell transcriptomics reveals spatially resolved PANoptosis signatures in Alzheimer's hippocampal microenvironments and multiple sclerosis demyelinating plaques, with distinct molecular clusters correlating to quantifiable neuroinflammatory metrics. Emerging PANoptosis-targeted therapies show preclinical promise in alleviating neurovascular dysfunction while preserving physiological microglial surveillance functions. Accumulating evidence linking dysregulated cell death pathways (particularly PANoptosis) to neurological disorders underscores the urgency of deciphering its molecular mechanisms and developing precision modulators as next-generation therapies. This review systematically deciphers PANoptosome assembly mechanisms and associated cell death cascades, evaluates their pathological roles in neurological disorders through multiscale regulatory networks, and proposes PANoptosis-targeted therapeutic frameworks to advance precision neurology.

Sodium butyrate alleviates colitis by inhibiting mitochondrial ROS mediated macrophage pyroptosis

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease with unclear causes and limited treatment options. Sodium butyrate (NaB), a byproduct of dietary fiber in the intestine, has demonstrated efficacy in treating inflammation. However, the precise anti-inflammatory mechanisms of NaB in colon inflammation remain largely unexplored. This study aims to investigate the effects of NaB on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in rats. The findings indicate that oral administration of NaB effectively prevent colitis and reduce levels of serum or colon inflammatory factors. Additionally, NaB demonstrated in vitro inhibition of RAW264.7 inflammation cytokines induced by LPS, along with suppression of the ERK and NF-κB signaling pathway activation. Moreover, NaB mitigated LPS and Nigericin-induced RAW264.7 pyroptosis by reducing indicators of mitochondrial damage, including increased mitochondrial membrane potential (JC-1) levels and decreased Mito-ROS production. NaB increases ZO-1 and Occludin expression in CaCo2 cells by inhibiting RAW264.7 pyroptosis. These results suggest that NaB could be utilized as a therapeutic agent or dietary supplement to alleviate colitis.

The role of necroptosis in pathological pregnancies: Mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities

Necroptosis, a distinctive form of programmed cell death differs mechanistically from apoptosis pyroptosis, and autophagy, is characterized by the activation of receptor-interacting protein kinases (RIPK1/RIPK3) and their downstream effector, mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL). This programmed cell death pathway serves as a crucial mediator of inflammatory responses and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of diverse pathological conditions. Recent evidence has implicated dysregulated necroptosis in the pathogenesis of severe pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia (PE), fetal growth restriction (FGR), recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA), and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). In these disorders, necroptosis promotes placental dysfunction through multiple interconnected mechanisms: amplification of pro-inflammatory cytokine cascades, aberrant immune activation, disruption of plasma membrane integrity, and subsequent tissue injury.These pregnancy-related pathologies consistently demonstrate elevated necroptotic signatures, correlating with adverse maternal-fetal outcomes. This comprehensive review synthesizes current understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying necroptosis, with particular emphasis on its pivotal role in the etiopathogenesis of pregnancy-related disorders. Furthermore, we critically evaluate the therapeutic potential of targeting the necroptotic signaling axis, providing novel perspectives for developing targeted interventions to improve clinical outcomes in complicated pregnancies.

Using host and bacterial genetic approaches to define virulence strategies and protective immunity during Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection

Infections with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) resulted in over one million deaths in 2024, the highest number for any infectious disease. With no vaccines that protect against pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) and the challenges associated with antibiotic therapy, there is a critical need to better understand host-Mtb interactions to help curb this major public health problem. Mtb is arguably the most successful human pathogen, and it survives in diverse environments, resulting in heterogeneous disease outcomes in patients. Five years ago, in my commentary in mSphere, I discussed how Mtb virulence strategies that sense, adapt, and evade killing in the host can be uncovered using genetic approaches. Here, I will come full circle to highlight genetic approaches that recently uncovered new mechanisms regulating protective host responses and Mtb survival tactics. The goal is to highlight a genetic framework to probe a range of unexplored Mtb phenotypes, increase our understanding of host-Mtb interactions, and identify new therapeutic targets that may help prevent TB.

Porphyromonas gingivalis aggravates atherosclerotic plaque instability by promoting lipid-laden macrophage necroptosis

At advanced phases of atherosclerosis, the rupture and thrombogenesis of vulnerable plaques emerge as primary triggers for acute cardiovascular events and fatalities. Pathogenic infection such as periodontitis-associated Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) has been suspected of increasing the risks of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, but its relationship with atherosclerotic plaque destabilization remains elusive. Here we demonstrated that the level of Pg-positive clusters positively correlated with the ratio of necrotic core area to total atherosclerotic plaque area in human clinical samples, which indicates plaque instability. In rabbits and Apoe-/- mice, Pg promoted atherosclerotic plaque necrosis and aggravated plaque instability by triggering oxidative stress, which led to macrophage necroptosis. This process was accompanied by the decreased protein level of forkhead box O3 (FOXO3) in macrophages. The mechanistic dissection showed that Pg lipopolysaccharide (LPS) evoked macrophage oxidative stress via the TLR4 signaling pathway, which subsequently activated MAPK/ERK-mediated FOXO3 phosphorylation and following degradation. While the gingipains, a class of proteases produced by Pg, could effectively hydrolyze FOXO3 in the cytoplasm of macrophages. Both of them decreased the nuclear level of FOXO3, followed by the release of histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2) from the macrophage scavenger receptor 1 (Msr1) promoter, thus promoting Msr1 transcription. This enhanced MSR1-mediated lipid uptake further amplified oxidative stress-induced necroptosis in lipid-laden macrophages. In summary, Pg exacerbates macrophage oxidative stress-dependent necroptosis, thus enlarges the atherosclerotic plaque necrotic core and ultimately promotes plaque destabilization.

Targeting oxidative stress-mediated regulated cell death as a vulnerability in cancer

Reactive oxygen species (ROS), regulators of cellular behaviors ranging from signaling to cell death, have complex production and control mechanisms to maintain a dynamic redox balance under physiological conditions. Redox imbalance is frequently observed in tumor cells, where ROS within tolerable limits promote oncogenic transformation, while excessive ROS induce a range of regulated cell death (RCD). As such, targeting ROS-mediated regulated cell death as a vulnerability in cancer. However, the precise regulatory networks governing ROS-mediated cancer cell death and their therapeutic applications remain inadequately characterized. In this Review, we first provide a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms underlying ROS production and control within cells, highlighting their dynamic balance. Next, we discuss the paradoxical nature of the redox system in tumor cells, where ROS can promote tumor growth or suppress it, depending on the context. We also systematically explored the role of ROS in tumor signaling pathways and revealed the complex ROS-mediated cross-linking networks in cancer cells. Following this, we focus on the intricate regulation of ROS in RCD and its current applications in cancer therapy. We further summarize the potential of ROS-induced RCD-based therapies, particularly those mediated by drugs targeting specific redox balance mechanisms. Finally, we address the measurement of ROS and oxidative damage in research, discussing existing challenges and future prospects of targeting ROS-mediated RCD in cancer therapy. We hope this review will offer promise for the clinical application of targeting oxidative stress-mediated regulated cell death in cancer therapy.

Immune modulation for the patterns of epithelial cell death in inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an inflammatory disease of the intestine whose primary pathological presentation is the destruction of the intestinal epithelium. The intestinal epithelium, located between the lumen and lamina propria, transmits luminal microbial signals to the immune cells in the lamina propria, which also modulate the intestinal epithelium. In IBD patients, intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) die dysfunction and the mucosal barrier is disrupted, leading to the recruitment of immune cells and the release of cytokines. In this review, we describe the structure and functions of the intestinal epithelium and mucosal barrier in the physiological state and under IBD conditions, as well as the patterns of epithelial cell death and how immune cells modulate the intestinal epithelium providing a reference for clinical research and drug development of IBD. In addition, according to the targeting of epithelial apoptosis and necroptotic pathways and the regulation of immune cells, we summarized some new methods for the treatment of IBD, such as necroptosis inhibitors, microbiome regulation, which provide potential ideas for the treatment of IBD. This review also describes the potential for integrating AI-driven approaches into innovation in IBD treatments.

Mitochondrial dynamics and metabolism in macrophages for cardiovascular disease: A review

BACKGROUND

Mitochondria regulate macrophage function, affecting cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis and heart failure. Their dynamics interact with macrophage cell death mechanisms, including apoptosis and necroptosis.

PURPOSE

This review explores how mitochondrial dynamics and metabolism influence macrophage inflammation and cell death in CVDs, highlighting therapeutic targets for enhancing macrophage resilience and reducing CVD pathology, while examining molecular pathways and pharmacological agents involved.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a narrative review that integrates findings from various studies on mitochondrial dynamics and metabolism in macrophages, their interactions with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and Golgi apparatus, and their implications for CVDs. The review also considers the potential therapeutic effects of pharmacological agents on these pathways.

METHODS

The review utilizes a comprehensive literature search to identify relevant studies on mitochondrial dynamics and metabolism in macrophages, their role in CVDs, and the effects of pharmacological agents on these pathways. The selected studies are analyzed and synthesized to provide insights into the complex relationships between mitochondria, the ER, and Golgi apparatus, and their implications for macrophage function and fate.

RESULTS

The review reveals that mitochondrial metabolism intertwines with cellular architecture and function, particularly through its intricate interactions with the ER and Golgi apparatus. Mitochondrial-associated membranes (MAMs) facilitate Ca2+ transfer from the ER to mitochondria, maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis during ER stress. The Golgi apparatus transports proteins crucial for inflammatory signaling, contributing to immune responses. Inflammation-induced metabolic reprogramming in macrophages, characterized by a shift from oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis, underscores the multifaceted role of mitochondrial metabolism in regulating immune cell polarization and inflammatory outcomes. Notably, mitochondrial dysfunction, marked by heightened reactive oxygen species generation, fuels inflammatory cascades and promotes cell death, exacerbating CVD pathology. However, pharmacological agents such as Metformin, Nitazoxanide, and Galanin emerge as potential therapeutic modulators of these pathways, offering avenues for mitigating CVD progression.

CONCLUSION

This review highlights mitochondrial dynamics and metabolism in macrophage inflammation and cell death in CVDs, suggesting therapeutic targets to improve macrophage resilience and reduce pathology, with new pharmacological agents offering treatment opportunities.

The mitochondrial dysfunction regulated by JAK2/STAT3 pathway leads to the necroptosis in the renal cells under patulin exposure

Patulin (PAT) is a common mycotoxin widely found in various agricultural products and fruits, which has obvious toxic effects on animals and humans. Some studies have shown that PAT can cause nephrotoxicity, but the exact mechanism remains to be elucidated. In the present study, we investigated PAT-induced nephrotoxicity and the possible molecular mechanisms involved in its action. In vivo, the results showed that PAT affected the integrity of the glomerular basement membrane and peduncles, leading to necroptosis. We further demonstrated that PAT up-regulated the expression of JAK2, STAT3, RIPK1, RIPK3, and MLKL. This observation was also confirmed in MPC-5 cells. In vitro, pretreatment with Nec-1 (a specific inhibitor of necroptosis) or si-STAT3 resulted in a significant reduction in necroptosis and improved mitochondrial dysfunction. Notably, the pharmacological protection of mitochondrial function by SS-31 significantly attenuated the onset of PAT-induced necroptosis. Taken together, our study suggested that STAT3 activation, and mitochondrial dysfunction played critical roles in PAT-induced necroptosis in the kidney. These findings revealed the mechanisms by which PAT triggered necroptosis, potentially providing a new therapeutic strategy for PAT poisoning.

Dental pulp stem cells alleviate Schwann cell pyroptosis via mitochondrial transfer to enhance facial nerve regeneration

Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) have demonstrated remarkable potential in enhancing peripheral nerve regeneration, though the precise mechanisms remain largely unknown. This study investigates how DPSCs alleviate Schwann cell pyroptosis and restore mitochondrial homeostasis through intercellular mitochondrial transfer. In a crab-eating macaque model, we first observed that DPSC-loaded nerve conduits significantly promoted long-term nerve regeneration, facilitating tissue proliferation and myelin recovery. We further established a rat facial nerve injury (FNI) model and found that DPSC treatment reduced pyroptosis and mitochondrial ROS production in Schwann cells. A pivotal mitochondrial protective mechanism, resembling the effects of a ROS-targeted inhibitor, involved the transfer of mitochondria from DPSCs to pyroptosis-induced Schwann cells via tunneling nanotubes, while blocking intercellular junctions or mitochondrial function diminished the therapeutic effects. TNFα secreted by pyroptosis-induced Schwann cells activated the NF-κB pathway in DPSCs, enhancing mitochondrial transfer and adaptive stress responses, thereby promoting mitochondrial protection against pyroptosis in Schwann cells, as reflected in the improved therapeutic efficacy of TNFα-preconditioned DPSCs in the FNI model. These findings unveil a mechanism through which DPSCs foster nerve regeneration via mitochondrial transfer, presenting a promising strategy for enhancing stem cell-based therapies for nerve injuries.

PANoptosis: a potential target of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease

PANoptosis is a newly discovered cell death pathway triggered by the innate immunizer, which in turn promotes the assembly of the PANoptosome and activates downstream effectors. As a special cell death mode, it is characterized by apoptosis, pyroptosis, and necroptosis at the same time; therefore, it is not feasible to inhibit PANoptosis by suppressing a single cell death pathway. However, active ingredients targeting the PANoptosome can effectively inhibit PANoptosis.Given the importance of cell death in disease, targeting PANoptosis would be an important therapeutic tool. Previous studies have focused more on infectious diseases and cancer, and the role of PANoptosis in the cardiovascular field has not been comprehensively addressed. While ASCVD is the number one killer of cardiovascular diseases, it is important to explore new targets to determine future research directions. Therefore, this review focuses on the assembly of PANoptosome, the molecular mechanism of PANoptosis, and the related mechanisms of PANoptosis leading to ASCVD such as myocardial infarction, ischemic cardiomyopathy and ischemic stroke, in order to provide a new perspective for the prevention and treatment of ASCVD.

Apigenin-Mediated ESCRT-III Activation and Mitophagy Alleviate LPS-Induced Necroptosis in Renal Cells

Apigenin (API) is a flavonoid widely distributed in vegetables and fruits that exhibits numerous biological functions. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a key component of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, can cause kidney injury when released into the bloodstream. Necroptosis is a form of programmed cell death characterized by the rupture of cell membranes. Excessive occurrence of necroptosis can lead to substantial damage to cells and tissues. In the study, we discovered that API could mitigate LPS-induced kidney injury in mice and alleviate LPS-induced necroptosis in Normal Rat Kidney-52E (NRK-52E) cells by targeting the mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS)-RIPK3-MLKL pathway. Further mechanistic studies revealed that API could potentially activate the endosomal sorting complexes required for transport-III (ESCRT-III), and activated ESCRT-III could repair cell membrane rupture caused by LPS-induced necroptosis. Simultaneously, we discovered that activated ESCRT-III could promote mitophagy, which facilitates the timely removal of damaged mitochondria and reduces intracellular mtROS levels. In conclusion, our results suggested that API alleviates LPS-induced renal cell necroptosis by activating ESCRT-III-dependent membrane repair and mitophagy. Our study provides new insights into the daily dietary intake of API to alleviate kidney injury caused by LPS.

20-Acetylsinularolide B (ASB) From Lobophytum crassum Exhibits Anticancer Activity In Vitro Through IGF1R/PI3K/AKT/mTOR Pathway

As lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, the development of novel therapeutic drugs is essential. 20-Acetylsinularolide B (ASB) is a diterpene isolated from marine soft coral Lobophytum crassum. Our previous studies demonstrated that ASB exhibits growth-inhibitory effects on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. This study employed network pharmacology to predict ASB's potential targets in NSCLC treatment. The predicted target was validated using the cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA). In vitro anticancer activity was assessed through MTT and crystal violet assays for proliferation, along with Western blotting, cell cycle and apoptosis analysis, mitochondrial membrane potential, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and nuclear morphology evaluation. Migration and invasion were evaluated using wound healing and Transwell assays. The results showed that ASB significantly arrests the cell cycle of H1299 cells at the G2/M phase by modulating the IGF1R/PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, thereby inhibiting cell mitosis. Simultaneously, ASB promoted intracellular ROS production, reduced mitochondrial membrane potential, and ultimately induced cell apoptosis. In addition, ASB significantly inhibited the colony formation, migration, and invasion abilities of H1299 cells, which are closely associated with the function of the IGF1R target. These findings highlight the significant potential of ASB as a lead anticancer compound for NSCLC therapy.

Arsenic exposure provoked prostatic PANoptosis by inducing mitochondrial dysfunction in mice and WPMY-1 cells

Inorganic arsenic, a widespread environmental toxicant, significantly contributes to prostate injury. However, the exact cellular mechanisms remain unclear. This study explored the involvement of pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis (PANoptosis), and their interconnections in arsenic-induced prostate injury. Herein, by employing in vitro (WPMY-1 cells exposed to arsenic for 48 h with or without reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial ROS scavenger treatments) and in vivo (C57BL/6 mice were orally gavaged with arsenic and/or N-acetylcysteine for 90 consecutive days) models of arsenic-induced prostate injury and intervention, we demonstrated that sodium arsenite (NaAsO2) triggered mitochondrial damage-activated PANoptosis via the Bax/Bcl-xL/caspase-3/Gasdermin E (GSDME) pathway and the Z-DNA binding protein 1/receptor-interacting protein kinases 1 (RIPK1)/RIPK3/mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL) signaling pathway. Notably, treatment with NaAsO2, GSDME, or MLKL knockdown in WPMY-1 cells increased the phenotype of PANoptosis. Mechanistically, the GSDME-N, GSDMD-N, p-MLKL, and cleaved caspase-3 protein levels were increased (1.4-, 2.67-, 3.51-, and 2.16-fold, respectively) in NaAsO2-treated GSDME knockdown WPMY-1 cells, whereas GSDME-N and cleaved caspase-3 protein levels were increased (1.30- and 1.21-fold, respectively) in NaAsO2-treated MLKL knockdown WPMY-1 cells. Our study highlights the crucial role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the initiation of PANoptosis during arsenic-induced prostate injury. Furthermore, we provide novel insights into the connections between apoptosis, pyroptosis, and necroptosis, indicating that GSDME and MLKL proteins may act as crucial regulators and potential therapeutic targets for arsenic-induced PANoptosis.

Gasdermin D deficiency aggravates nephrocalcinosis-related chronic kidney disease with rendering macrophages vulnerable to necroptosis

Several forms of regulated necrosis contribute to the pathogenesis of crystal nephropathy, however, the role of pyroptosis, an inflammatory form of cell death involving the formation of gasdermin-D pores in internal and external cell membranes, in this condition remains unknown. Our transcriptional and histological analyses suggest that Gsdmd in tubulointerstitital cells may contribute to the pathogenesis of chronic oxalate nephropathy. However, genetic deletion of Gsdmd exacerbated oxalate nephropathy in mice in association with enhanced CaOx crystal deposition and accelerated tubular epithelial cell injury. Pharmacological inhibition of necroptosis reversed this effect. Indeed, Gsdmd-/- bone marrow-derived macrophages were more prone to undergo necroptosis when stimulated with CaOx crystals compared to their wildtype counterparts. We conclude that gasdermin D suppresses the necroptosis pathway, which determines the outcome of oxalate nephropathy-related nephrocalcinosis.

The Role of Post-Translational Modifications in Necroptosis

Necroptosis, a distinct form of regulated necrosis implicated in various human pathologies, is orchestrated through sophisticated signaling pathways. During this process, cells undergoing necroptosis exhibit characteristic necrotic morphology and provoke substantial inflammatory responses. Post-translational modifications (PTMs)-chemical alterations occurring after protein synthesis that critically regulate protein functionality-constitute essential regulatory components within these complex signaling cascades. This intricate crosstalk between necroptotic pathways and PTM networks presents promising therapeutic opportunities. Our comprehensive review systematically analyzes the molecular mechanisms underlying necroptosis, with particular emphasis on the regulatory roles of PTMs in signal transduction. Through systematic evaluation of key modifications including ubiquitination, phosphorylation, glycosylation, methylation, acetylation, disulfide bond formation, caspase cleavage, nitrosylation, and SUMOylation, we examine potential therapeutic applications targeting necroptosis in disease pathogenesis. Furthermore, we synthesize current pharmacological strategies for manipulating PTM-regulated necroptosis, offering novel perspectives on clinical target development and therapeutic intervention.

The interplay between α-synuclein aggregation and necroptosis in Parkinson's disease: a spatiotemporal perspective

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the death of dopaminergic neurons and the aggregation of alpha-synuclein (α-Syn). It presents with prominent motor symptoms, and by the time of diagnosis, a significant number of neurons have already been lost. Current medications can only alleviate symptoms but cannot halt disease progression. Studies have confirmed that both dopaminergic neuronal loss and α-Syn aggregation are associated with necroptosis mechanisms. Necroptosis, a regulated form of cell death, has been recognized as an underexplored hotspot in PD pathogenesis research. In this review, we propose a spatiotemporal model of PD progression, highlighting the interactions between α-Syn aggregation, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation and necroptosis. These processes not only drive motor symptoms but also contribute to early non-motor symptoms, offering insights into potential diagnostic markers. Finally, we touch upon the therapeutic potential of necroptosis inhibition in enhancing current PD treatments, such as L-Dopa. This review aims to provide a new perspective on the pathogenesis of PD and to identify avenues for the development of more effective therapeutic strategies.

Parkinson's Disease: The Neurodegenerative Enigma Under the "Undercurrent" of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress

Parkinson's disease (PD), a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder, demonstrates the critical involvement of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) in its pathogenesis. This review comprehensively examines the role and molecular mechanisms of ERS in PD. ERS represents a cellular stress response triggered by imbalances in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) homeostasis, induced by factors such as hypoxia and misfolded protein aggregation, which activate the unfolded protein response (UPR) through the inositol-requiring enzyme 1 (IRE1), protein kinase R-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK), and activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6) pathways. Clinical, animal model, and cellular studies have consistently demonstrated a strong association between PD and ERS. Abnormal expression of ERS-related molecules in PD patients' brains and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) correlates with disease progression. In animal models (e.g., Drosophila and mice), ERS inhibition alleviates dopaminergic neuronal damage. Cellular experiments reveal that PD-mimicking pathological conditions induce ERS, while interactions between ERS and mitochondrial dysfunction promote neuronal apoptosis. Mechanistically, (1) pathological aggregation of α-synuclein (α-syn) and ERS mutually reinforce dopaminergic neuron damage; (2) leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) gene mutations induce ERS through thrombospondin-1 (THBS1)/transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) interactions; (3) molecules such as Parkin and PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1) regulate ERS in PD. Furthermore, ERS interacts with mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation to exacerbate neuronal injury. Emerging therapeutic strategies show significant potential, including artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted drug design targeting ERS pathways and precision medicine approaches exploring non-pharmacological interventions such as personalized electroacupuncture. Future research should focus on elucidating ERS-related mechanisms and identifying novel therapeutic targets to develop more effective treatments for PD patients, ultimately improving their quality of life.

Mechanical Force Triggers Macrophage Pyroptosis and Sterile Inflammation by Disrupting Cellular Energy Metabolism

Mechanical force regulates tissue remodeling during orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) by inducing macrophage-mediated sterile inflammatory responses. Pyroptosis, as an inflammatory form of programmed cell death, triggers a robust inflammatory cascade by activating the inflammasome. Although recent reports have demonstrated that pyroptosis can be activated by mechanical force, it remains unclear whether and how orthodontic force induces macrophage pyroptosis and sterile inflammation. In this study, by establishing a rat OTM model and a force-loaded macrophage model, we found that force induces Caspase1-dependent pyroptosis in macrophages and activates sterile inflammation both in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, we uncovered that mechanical force disrupts macrophage energy metabolism, characterized by an imbalance between lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) and pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH), as well as mitochondrial dysfunction. Notably, inhibiting pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 1 (PDK1) effectively restored this metabolic balance, thereby alleviating pyroptosis and sterile inflammation in force-stimulated macrophages. Overall, this study elucidates that force induces macrophage pyroptosis and sterile inflammation, and further identifies imbalances in the LDHA/PDH ratio and mitochondrial dysfunction as pivotal mechanistic features. These insights offer novel perspectives and potential therapeutic targets for the precise and effective modulation of OTM.

MOMP: A critical event in cell death regulation and anticancer treatment

Mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (MOMP) refers to the increase in permeability of the mitochondrial outer membrane, allowing proteins, DNA, and other molecules to pass through the intermembrane space into the cytosol. As a crucial event in the induction of apoptosis, MOMP plays a significant role in regulating various forms of cell death, including apoptosis, ferroptosis, and pyroptosis. Importantly, MOMP is not a binary process of "all-or-nothing." Under sub-lethal stress stimuli, cells may experience a phenomenon referred to as minority MOMP (miMOMP), where only a subset of mitochondria undergo functional impairment, thereby disrupting the normal life cycle of the cell. This can lead to pathological and physiological changes such as tumor formation, cellular senescence, innate immune dysfunction, and chronic inflammation. This review focuses on the diversity of MOMP events to elucidate how varying degrees of MOMP under different stress conditions influence cell fate. Additionally, it summarizes the current research progress on novel antitumor therapeutic strategies targeting MOMP in clinical contexts.

Functional Materials Targeted Regulation of Gasdermins: From Fundamentals to Functionalities and Applications

Targeted regulation of pyroptosis to modulate the immune landscape has emerged as a novel design strategy for cancer immunotherapy and anti-inflammatory therapy. However, pyroptosis acts as a double-edged sword, making it important to optimize the design strategies of functional materials to appropriately activate pyroptosis for effective disease treatment. This paper summarizes and discusses the structure, pore formation, and molecular mechanisms of "executor" Gasdermins, as well as the events preceding and following these processes. Subsequently, the focus is on reviewing functional materials that directly regulate Gasdermin pore formation to target pyroptosis and those that indirectly regulate the events before and after Gasdermin pore formation to control pyroptosis activity. Finally, the advantages, disadvantages, and future prospects of designing such functional materials are provided, aiming to facilitate the precise design, pharmacological investigation, and clinical translation of pyroptosis-related functional materials.

Reprogramming of Treg cell-derived small extracellular vesicles effectively prevents intestinal inflammation from PANoptosis by blocking mitochondrial oxidative stress

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic relapsing immune-mediated inflammatory disorder of the alimentary tract without exact etiology. Mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) derived from mitochondrial dysfunction impair intestinal barrier function, increase gut permeability, and facilitate immune cell invasion, and, therefore, are considered to have a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of IBD. Here, we reprogrammed regulatory T cell (Treg)-derived exosomes loaded with the antioxidant trace element selenium (Se) and decorated them with the synthetic mitochondria-targeting SS-31 tetrapeptide via a peptide linker. This linker can be cleaved by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in inflammatory lesions. This actively targetable exosome-derived delivery system is protected from intestinal inflammation by scavenging excessive mtROS and preventing immunologically programmed cell death pyroptosis, necroptosis, and apoptosis, known as PANoptosis. Our results suggest that this engineered exosome delivery platform represents a promising targeted therapeutic strategy for the treatment of IBDs.

Unravelling the Role of PANoptosis in Liver Diseases: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications

PANoptosis is a multimodal form of cell death that involves inflammatory, apoptotic, and necroptotic pathways, playing a key role in the development of liver diseases. This article first outlines the definition and characteristics of PANoptosis, and then explores its mechanisms of action in different types of liver diseases, including acute liver injury, liver failure, metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Furthermore, this article analyses the molecular regulatory network of PANoptosis and potential therapeutic targets. Finally, this article summarises the current research on PANoptosis in liver diseases and future research directions, and it reviews the role of the emerging cell death mechanism of PANoptosis in liver diseases.

Atrial cardiomyocyte-restricted cleavage of gasdermin D promotes atrial arrhythmogenesis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Enhanced inflammatory signalling causally contributes to atrial fibrillation (AF) development. Gasdermin D (GSDMD) is an important downstream effector of several inflammasome pathways. However, the role of GSDMD, particularly the cleaved N-terminal (NT)-GSDMD, in non-immune cells remains elusive. This study aimed to elucidate the function of NT-GSDMD in atrial cardiomyocytes (ACMs) and determine its contribution to atrial arrhythmogenesis.

METHODS

Human atrial appendages were used to assess the protein levels and localization. A modified adeno-associated virus 9 was employed to establish ACM-restricted overexpression of NT-GSDMD in mice.

RESULTS

The cleavage of GSDMD was enhanced in ACMs of AF patients. Atrial cardiomyocyte-restricted overexpression of NT-GSDMD in mice increased susceptibility to pacing-induced AF. The NT-GSDMD pore formation facilitated interleukin-1β secretion from ACMs, promoting macrophage infiltration, while up-regulating 'endosomal sorting complexes required for transport'-mediated membrane-repair mechanisms, which prevented inflammatory cell death (pyroptosis) in ACMs. Up-regulated NT-GSDMD directly targeted mitochondria, increasing mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, which triggered proarrhythmic calcium-release events. The NT-GSDMD-induced arrhythmogenesis was mitigated by the mitochondrial-specific antioxidant MitoTEMPO. A mutant NT-GSDMD lacking pore-formation capability failed to cause mitochondrial dysfunction or induce atrial arrhythmia. Genetic ablation of Gsdmd prevented spontaneous AF development in a mouse model.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings establish a unique pyroptosis-independent role of NT-GSDMD in ACMs and arrhythmogenesis, which involves ROS-driven mitochondrial dysfunction. Mitochondrial-targeted therapy, either by reducing ROS production or inhibition of GSDMD, prevents AF inducibility, positioning GSDMD as a novel therapeutic target for AF prevention.

Identification and validation of leukemia inhibitory factor as a protective factor in ischemic acute kidney injury

BACKGROUND

Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is a common pathophysiological mechanism of acute kidney injury (AKI). There is an urgent need for a more comprehensive analysis of its underlying mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The RNA-sequencing dataset GSE153625 was used to examine differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of kidney tissues in IRI-AKI mice compared with sham mice. We used 10 algorithms provided by cytohubba plugin and four external datasets (GSE192532, GSE52004, GSE98622, and GSE185383) to screen for hub genes. The IRI-AKI mouse model with different reperfusion times was established to validate the expression of hub gene in the kidneys. HK-2 cells were cultured in vitro under hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) conditions, via transfection with si-LIF or supplementation with the LIF protein to explore the function of the LIF gene.

RESULTS

We screened a total of 1,540 DEGs in the IRI group compared with the sham group and identified that the LIF hub gene may play potential roles in IRI-AKI. LIF was markedly upregulated in the kidney tissues of IRI-AKI mice, as well as in HK-2 cells grown under H/R conditions. The knockdown of LIF aggravated apoptosis and oxidative stress (OS) injury under H/R conditions. Administration of the LIF protein rescued the effects of si-LIF, alleviating cellular apoptosis and OS.

CONCLUSION

These findings indicate an important role of the LIF gene in term of regulating apoptosis and OS in the early phases of IRI-AKI. Targeting LIF may therefore represent a promising therapeutic strategy for IRI-AKI.

GI-Y2, a novel gasdermin D inhibitor, attenuates sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction by inhibiting gasdermin D-mediated pyroptosis in macrophages

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Myocardial dysfunction is a significant complication associated with sepsis. However, there are currently no specific and effective treatments available. Inhibiting gasdermin D (GSDMD)-mediated pyroptosis has shown promise in mitigating sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction. The GSDMD inhibitor Y2 (GI-Y2) has been demonstrated to directly bind to GSDMD. Nonetheless, it remains uncertain whether GI-Y2 offers a cardioprotective effect in the context of sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

A mouse model of sepsis was created using lipopolysaccharide (LPS), caecal ligation and puncture. Following treatment with GI-Y2 or macrophage membrane-encapsulated GI-Y2 nanoparticles (GI-Y2@MM-NPs), myocardial dysfunction and pyroptosis levels in heart tissues were assessed. Transcriptome sequencing revealed the molecular mechanism of GI-Y2 in treating septic cardiomyopathy.

KEY RESULTS

We observed that GI-Y2 alleviated myocardial dysfunction and attenuated cardiac inflammation in mice induced by LPS, caecal ligation and puncture. GI-Y2 reduced macrophage pyroptosis and attenuated macrophage-mediated cardiomyocyte injury induced by LPS/nigericin. Concurrently, we confirmed the protective effect of GI-Y2 against LPS-induced cardiac dysfunction was abolished in the absence of GSDMD. Additionally, GI-Y2 attenuated the mitochondrial damage induced by LPS by inhibiting GSDMD in the mitochondria. Furthermore, we developed GI-Y2@MM-NPs to enhance the targeting capability of GI-Y2 towards macrophages in heart tissues and demonstrated its protective effect in vivo.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

These findings indicate that GI-Y2 alleviates septic myocardial injury and dysfunction by specifically targeting GSDMD, thereby inhibiting GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis and mitochondrial damage. Both GI-Y2 and GI-Y2@MM-NPs may serve as promising therapeutic options for addressing septic myocardial dysfunction.

Versatility of gasdermin D beyond pyroptosis

Gasdermin D (GSDMD) has garnered significant attention primarily for the pore-forming role of its p30 N-terminal fragment (NT-p30) generated during pyroptosis, a proinflammatory form of cell death. However, emerging evidence suggests that the formation of GSDMD-NT pores is reversible, and the activation of GSDMD does not necessarily lead to pyroptosis. Instead, this process may take part either in other forms of cell death, or in various state changes of living cells, including (i) inflammation regulation, (ii) endolysosomal pathway rewiring, (iii) granule exocytosis, (iv) type II immunity, (v) food tolerance maintenance, and (vi) temporary permeability alteration. This review explores the latest insights into the involvement of GSDMD in cell death and homeostasis maintenance, aiming to underscore the pleiotropic nature of GSDMD.

Assembling Ruthenium Complexes to Form Ruthenosome Unleashing Ferritinophagy-Mediated Tumor Suppression

We introduce ruthenosomes, a fusion of liposomal and reactive oxygen species (ROS)-generating properties meticulously engineered as potent ferroptosis inducers (FINs), marking a significant advancement in metallodrug design for cancer therapy. Formed through the self-assembly of oleate-conjugated ruthenium complexes, these ruthenosomes exhibit exceptional cellular uptake, selectively accumulating in mitochondria and causing substantial disruption. This targeted mitochondrial damage significantly elevates ROS levels, triggering autophagy and selectively activating ferritinophagy. Together, these processes sensitize cancer cells to ferroptosis. In vivo, ruthenosomes effectively suppress colorectal tumor growth, underscoring their therapeutic potential. Our study pioneers a design strategy that transforms ruthenium complexes into liposome-like structures capable of inducing ferroptosis independent of light activation. By leveraging ruthenosomes as multifunctional nanocarriers, this research offers a versatile and powerful platform for ROS-mediated, ferroptosis-driven cancer cell eradication.

Fucoxanthin from Laminaria japonica Targeting PANoptosis and Ferroptosis Pathways: Insights into Its Therapeutic Potential Against Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer (OC) is a highly aggressive malignancy with a poor prognosis, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies. Fucoxanthin (FX), a marine-derived carotenoid from Laminaria japonica, has demonstrated promising anticancer potential. This study revealed that FX exerts multiple anticancer effects in OC by inhibiting cell proliferation, invasion, and migration, while inducing various forms of programmed cell death (PCD). FX triggered PANoptosis (apoptosis, necroptosis, and pyroptosis) and ferroptosis. FX treatment regulated key markers associated with PANoptosis, including apoptosis (Bcl-2, cleaved caspase-3), pyroptosis (GSDME), and necroptosis (RIPK3). Additionally, FX treatment modulated ferroptosis-related markers, such as SLC7A11 and GPX4, while increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Fe2+ levels and disrupting mitochondrial function. Proteomic and molecular docking analyses identified AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) as a direct FX target, activating the AMPK/Nrf2/HMOX1 pathway to promote ferroptosis. In vivo, FX significantly reduced tumor growth in OC xenograft models, accompanied by enhanced ferroptosis marker expression. These findings demonstrate that FX induces ferroptosis through the AMPK/Nrf2/HMOX1 pathway and promotes PANoptosis via distinct mechanisms, highlighting its potential as a marine-derived therapeutic agent for OC.

Necrosis drives susceptibility to Mycobacterium tuberculosis in PolgD257A mutator mice

The genetic and molecular determinants that underlie the heterogeneity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection outcomes in humans are poorly understood. Multiple lines of evidence demonstrate that mitochondrial dysfunction can exacerbate mycobacterial disease severity, and mutations in some mitochondrial genes confer susceptibility to mycobacterial infection in humans. Here, we report that mutations in mitochondria DNA (mtDNA) polymerase gamma potentiate susceptibility to Mtb infection in mice. PolgD257A mutator mtDNA mice fail to mount a protective innate immune response at an early infection time point, evidenced by high bacterial burdens, reduced M1 macrophages, and excessive neutrophil infiltration in the lungs. Immunohistochemistry reveals signs of enhanced necrosis in the lungs of Mtb-infected PolgD257A mice, and PolgD257A mutator macrophages are hypersusceptible to extrinsic triggers of necroptosis ex vivo. By assigning a role for mtDNA mutations in driving necrosis during Mtb infection, this work further highlights the requirement for mitochondrial homeostasis in mounting balanced immune responses to Mtb.

Lung inflammation drives Long Covid

Peroxisome dysfunction in macrophages impairs lung repair after COVID-19 in mice.

Histone lactylation stimulated upregulation of PSMD14 alleviates neuron PANoptosis through deubiquitinating PKM2 to activate PINK1-mediated mitophagy after traumatic brain injury

Alleviating the multiple types of programmed neuronal death caused by mechanical injury has been an impetus for designing neuro-therapeutical approaches after traumatic brain injury (TBI). The aim of this study was to elucidate the potential role of PSMD14 (proteasome 26S subunit, non-ATPase 14) in neuron death and the specific mechanism through which it improves prognosis of TBI patients. Here, we identified differential expression of the PSMD14 protein between the controlled cortical impact (CCI) and sham mouse groups by LC-MS proteomic analysis and found that PSMD14 was significantly upregulated in neurons after brain injury by qPCR and western blot. PSMD14 suppressed stretch-induced neuron PANoptosis and improved motor ability and learning performance after CCI in vivo. Mechanistically, PSMD14 improved PINK1 phosphorylation levels at Thr257 and activated PINK1-mediated mitophagy by deubiquitinating PKM/PKM2 (pyruvate kinase M1/2) to maintain PKM protein stability. PSMD14-induced mitophagy promoted mitochondrial homeostasis to reduced ROS production, and ultimately inhibited the neuron PANoptosis. The upregulation of neuronal PSMD14 after TBI was due to the increase of histone lactation modification level and lactate treatment alleviated neuron PANoptosis via increasing PSMD14 expression. Our findings suggest that PSMD14 could be a potential therapeutic approach for improving the prognosis of TBI patients.Abbreviations: CCI: controlled cortical impact; CQ: chloroquine; DUBs: deubiquitinating enzymes; H3K18la: H3 lysine 18 lactylation; IB: immunoblot; IHC: immunohistochemistry; IP: immunoprecipitation; MLKL: mixed lineage kinase domain like pseudokinase; PI3K: phosphoinositide 3-kinase; PINK1: PTEN induced kinase 1; PKM/PKM2: pyruvate kinase M1/2; PSMD14: proteasome 26S subunit, non-ATPase 14; ROS: reactive oxygen species; RIPK1: receptor interacting serine/threonine kinase 1; RIPK3: receptor interacting serine/threonine kinase 3; TBI: traumatic brain injury.

SIRT1 Alleviates Mitochondrial Fission and Necroptosis in Cerebral Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury via SIRT1-RIP1 Signaling Pathway

Programmed cell death, including necroptosis, plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury (CIRI). Silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) has been identified as a potential therapeutic target for CIRI, yet its precise role in regulating necroptosis remains controversial. Furthermore, the potential interaction between SIRT1 and receptor-interacting protein kinase 1 (RIP1) in this context is not fully understood. Sanpian Decoction (SPD), a classical traditional herbal formula, was previously shown to enhance SIRT1 expression in our studies. Our findings demonstrated that, both in vivo and in vitro, CIRI was associated with a decrease in SIRT1 levels and phosphorylated dynamin-related protein 1 (p-DRP1) at Ser637, alongside an increase in RIP1 and other necroptosis-related proteins. Co-immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence analyses revealed a weakened interaction between SIRT1 and RIP1. Furthermore, abnormal mitochondrial fission and dysfunction were mediated through the phosphoglycerate mutase 5-DRP1 pathway. Notably, SPD treatment improved neurological outcomes and reversed these pathological changes by enhancing the SIRT1-RIP1 interaction. In conclusion, this study suggests that SIRT1 is a promising therapeutic target for CIRI, capable of inhibiting necroptosis and mitigating mitochondrial fission via the SIRT1-RIP1 pathway. SPD exhibits therapeutic potential by activating SIRT1, thereby attenuating necroptosis and mitochondrial fission during CIRI.

AdipoRon ameliorates chronic ethanol induced cardiac necroptosis by reducing ceramide mediated mtROS

Chronic ethanol (EtOH) consumption has been widely recognized as a significant contributor to cardiotoxicity. However, no specific treatment is currently available to ameliorate chronic ethanol induced cardiotoxicity. Adiponectin receptor agonist AdipoRon exerts protective effects in multiple organs through alleviating lipotoxicity. Our previous study showed that chronic ethanol consumption increased de novo ceramide synthesis and necroptosis in myocardium. In this study, we investigated the role of AdipoRon on ceramide metabolism and necroptosis in chronic ethanol-treated myocardium. Eight-week-old C57/BL6J mice were fed with a Lieber-Decarli diet containing vehicle or AdipoRon for 12 weeks. Cardiac function, histology and oxidative stress were assessed. We found that chronic ethanol treatment decreased expression of AdipoR2 in myocardium and H9c2 cells, whereas AdipoRon improved cardiac function, reduced myocardium ceramide levels and suppressed necroptosis. By pharmacological interventions, RNA interference and point mutations in AdipoR2, we demonstrated that AdipoRon reduced ceramide levels through PPARα mediated lipid metabolism rather than AdipoR2's ceramidase activity. Using transmission electron microscope and reactive oxygen species (ROS) staining, we showed that chronic ethanol induced myocardium mitochondria damage and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) accumulation. Meanwhile, we found that AdipoRon ameliorated chronic ethanol induced cardiac necroptosis via the SIRT3-SOD2-mtROS pathway. Moreover, C6 ceramide treatment recapitulated chronic ethanol in inducing mtROS and necroptosis, whereas the ceramide synthesis inhibitors myriocin (MYR) and fumonisin B1 (FB1) attenuated chronic ethanol induced mtROS and necroptosis. Collectively, AdipoRon ameliorates chronic ethanol induced cardiac necroptosis by reducing ceramide de novo synthesis and mtROS, which highlights the therapeutic potential of targeting ceramide metabolism and oxidative stress pathways in treating ethanol induced cardiotoxicity.

GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis: molecular mechanisms, diseases and therapeutic targets

Pyroptosis is a regulated form of inflammatory cell death in which Gasdermin D (GSDMD) plays a central role as the key effector molecule. GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis is characterized by complex biological features and considerable heterogeneity in its expression, mechanisms, and functional outcomes across various tissues, cell types, and pathological microenvironments. This heterogeneity is particularly pronounced in inflammation-related diseases and tumors. In the context of inflammatory diseases, GSDMD expression is typically upregulated, and its activation in macrophages, neutrophils, T cells, epithelial cells, and mitochondria triggers both pyroptotic and non-pyroptotic pathways, leading to the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and exacerbation of tissue damage. However, under certain conditions, GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis may also serve a protective immune function. The expression of GSDMD in tumors is regulated in a more complex manner, where it can either promote immune evasion or, in some instances, induce tumor cell death. As our understanding of GSDMD's role continues to progress, there have been advancements in the development of inhibitors targeting GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis; however, these therapeutic interventions remain in the preclinical phase. This review systematically examines the cellular and molecular complexities of GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis, with a particular emphasis on its roles in inflammation-related diseases and cancer. Furthermore, it underscores the substantial therapeutic potential of GSDMD as a target for precision medicine, highlighting its promising clinical applications.

Convertible Hydrogel Injection Sequentially Regulates Diabetic Periodontitis

Diabetes exacerbates periodontitis by overexpressing reactive oxygen species (ROS), which leads to periodontal bone resorption. Consequently, it is imperative to relieve inflammation and promote alveolar bone regeneration comprehensively for the development of diabetic periodontal treatment strategies. Furthermore, an orderly treatment to avoid interference between these two processes can achieve the optimal therapeutic effect. Thus, we constructed a sequential sustained release system based on the zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8)-modified chitosan thermosensitive hydrogel (TOOTH) for diabetic periodontal therapy in this work. Chemically modified tetracycline-3 (CMT-3) and platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) were loaded in the hydrogel and ZIF-8 for sequential release, respectively, with the aim of reducing inflammation and facilitating tissue regeneration. During the therapy, CMT-3 first escaped from the hydrogel due to degradation and diffusion for ROS elimination. Subsequently, ZIF-8 was dissociated under an acid microenvironment, and PDGF-BB was sustainably released to promote osteogenesis. The release intervals between CMT-3 and PDGF-BB could be regulated by the sizes of ZIF-8. The biocompatible TOOTH exhibited a favorable therapeutic effect for diabetic periodontitis in vitro and in vivo. The sequentially controlled release of CMT-3 and PDGF-BB facilitated by TOOTH holds promise for promoting periodontal tissue regeneration and offers potential for clinical translation.

Mitigating effects of Jiawei Chaihu Shugan decoction on necroptosis and inflammation of hippocampal neurons in epileptic mice

Jiawei Chaihu Shugan decoction (JWCHSGD) is a traditional Chinese medicine well-known for its beneficial effects in treating epilepsy (Xianzheng in ancient Chinese), but the molecular mechanism of its action remains unclear. To investigate the molecular mechanism of JWCHSGD's prevention of epilepsy-mediated neuron from necroptosis and inflammation via the circRNA-Csnk1g3/Csnk1g3-85aa/ CK1γ3/TNF-α signal pathway. In vitro, murine neuronal HT22 cells were treated in six groups: control, model, carbamazepine, and three JWCHSGD doses (high, medium, low). Viability and apoptosis were assessed via CCK-8 and flow cytometry. In vivo, 60 C57BL/6J mice were divided into six groups: control, model, carbamazepine, JWCHSGD, JWCHSGD + Sh Circ_Csnk1g3, and JWCHSGD + Sh NC. An epilepsy model was induced, and treatments were administered for two weeks. Outcomes included EEG, hippocampal histopathology, apoptosis (TUNEL), and mRNA/protein expression of key pathway markers. In HT22 cells, the model group showed reduced viability, increased apoptosis, and elevated mRNA/protein levels of Csnk1g3-85aa, RIP1, RIP3, MLKL, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β (P < 0.05). JWCHSGD and carbamazepine increased viability and decreased apoptosis, reversing these molecular changes (P < 0.05). In mice, the model group had heightened epileptic discharges, neuronal damage, and apoptosis, along with increased expression of the same markers (P < 0.05). JWCHSGD and carbamazepine mitigated these effects (P < 0.05). JWCHSGD reduces epileptic events by regulating the circRNA-Csnk1g3/Csnk1g3-85aa/CK1γ3/TNF-α signaling pathway, impacting necroptosis and inflammation in hippocampal neurons and HT22 cells.

Mechanisms and effects of activation of innate immunity by mitochondrial nucleic acids

In recent years, a growing number of roles have been identified for mitochondria in innate immunity. One principal mechanism is that the translocation of mitochondrial nucleic acid species from the mitochondrial matrix to the cytosol and endolysosomal lumen in response to an array of microbial and non-microbial environmental stressors has been found to serve as a second messenger event in the cell signaling of the innate immune response. Thus, mitochondrial DNA and RNA have been shown to access the cytosol through several regulated mechanisms involving remodeling of the mitochondrial inner and outer membranes and to access lysosomes via vesicular transport, thereby activating cytosolic [e.g. cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS), retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I)-like receptors], and endolysosomal (Toll-like receptor 7, 9) nucleic acid receptors that induce type I interferons and pro-inflammatory cytokines. In this mini-review, we discuss these molecular mechanisms of mitochondrial nucleic acid mislocalization and their roles in host defense, autoimmunity, and auto-inflammatory disorders. The emergent paradigm is one in which host-derived DNA interestingly serves as a signal amplifier in the innate immune response and also as an alarm signal for disturbances in organellar homeostasis. The apparent vast excess of mitochondria and mitochondrial DNA nucleoids per cell may thus serve to sensitize the cell response to stressors while ensuring an underlying reserve of intact mitochondria to sustain cellular metabolism. An improved understanding of these molecular mechanisms will hopefully afford future opportunities for therapeutic intervention in human disease.

Necroptosis in obesity: a complex cell death event

Obesity is an exceedingly prevalent and frequent health issue in today's society. Fat deposition is accompanied by low-grade inflammation in fat tissue and throughout the body, leading to metabolic disorders that ultimately promote the onset of obesity-related diseases. The development of obesity is accompanied by cell death events such as apoptosis as well as pyroptosis, however, the role of necroptosis in obesity has been widely reported in recent years. Necroptosis, a mode of cell death distinct from apoptosis and necrosis, is associated with developing many inflammatory conditions and their associated diseases. It also exhibits modulation of apoptosis and pyroptosis. It is morphologically similar to necroptosis, characterized by the inhibition of caspase-8, the formation of membrane pores, and the subsequent rupture of the plasma membrane. This paper focuses on the key pathways and molecules of necroptosis, exploring its connections with apoptosis and pyroptosis, and its implications in obesity. This paper posits that the modulation of necroptosis-related targets may represent a novel potential therapeutic avenue for the prevention and treatment of obesity-induced systemic inflammatory responses, and provides a synopsis of potential molecular targets that may prove beneficial in obesity-associated inflammatory diseases.

Targeting regulated cell death: Apoptosis, necroptosis, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and cuproptosis in anticancer immunity

In the evolving landscape of cancer treatment, the strategic manipulation of regulated cell death (RCD) pathways has emerged as a crucial component of effective anti-tumor immunity. Evidence suggests that tumor cells undergoing RCD can modify the immunogenicity of the tumor microenvironment (TME), potentially enhancing its ability to suppress cancer progression and metastasis. In this review, we first explore the mechanisms of apoptosis, necroptosis, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and cuproptosis, along with the crosstalk between these cell death modalities. We then discuss how these processes activate antigen-presenting cells, facilitate the cross-priming of CD8+ T cells, and trigger anti-tumor immune responses, highlighting the complex effects of novel forms of tumor cell death on TME and tumor biology. Furthermore, we summarize potential drugs and nanoparticles that can induce or inhibit these emerging RCD pathways and their therapeutic roles in cancer treatment. Finally, we put forward existing challenges and future prospects for targeting RCD in anti-cancer immunity. Overall, this review enhances our understanding of the molecular mechanisms and biological impacts of RCD-based therapies, providing new perspectives and strategies for cancer treatment.

Cleaving PINK1 or PGAM5? Involvement of PARL in Methamphetamine-Induced Excessive Mitophagy and Neuronal Necroptosis

BACKGROUND

Methamphetamine (Meth) is a potent psychoactive stimulant that triggers complex neurotoxicity characterized by autophagy-associated neuronal death. However, the potential mechanisms remain poorly understood. This study aimed to decipher the Meth-induced neuronal necroptosis involving mitochondrial defect-initiated excessive mitophagy caused by aberrant presenilin-associated rhomboid-like (PARL) cleavage of PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1) and phosphoglycerate mutase family member 5 (PGAM5).

METHODS AND RESULTS

With the transcriptome analysis, Meth exposure significantly affected autophagy, mitophagy, and necroptosis pathways; meanwhile, the proteomic analysis revealed a marked decline in the level of PARL, which led to an imbalance in intramembrane proteolysis of PINK1 and PGAM5. In behavioral tests, Meth administration elicited pronounced cognitive decline in mice, accompanied by decreased neuronal numbers, massive autophagosomes, and mitochondrial fragmentation, and these processes can be dramatically reversed by knockin of PARL and knockdown of PGAM5 in the mouse hippocampus, molecularly manifesting as decreased necrosome formation and phosphorylated mixed lineage kinase domain-like (p-MLKL) mitochondrial membrane translocation, and improved autophagic flux.

CONCLUSION

In summary, these findings collectively underscore the key roles of the PARL-PGAM5 axis in Meth-mediated neuronal necroptosis and that targeting this axis may provide promising therapeutic strategies for mitigating Meth-induced neurotoxicity.

A novel approach to the prevention and management of chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity: PANoptosis

As a fundamental component of antitumor therapy, chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity (CIC) has emerged as a leading cause of long-term mortality in patients with malignant tumors. Unfortunately, there are currently no effective therapeutic preventive or treatment strategies, and the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of CIC remain inadequately understood. A growing number of studies have shown that different mechanisms of cell death, such as apoptosis, pyroptosis, and necroptosis, are essential for facilitating the cardiotoxic effects of chemotherapy. The PANoptosis mode represents a highly synchronized and dynamically balanced programmed cell death (PCD) process that integrates the principal molecular characteristics of necroptosis, apoptosis, and pyroptosis. Recent research has revealed a significant correlation between PANoptosis and the apoptosis of tumor cells. Chemotherapy drugs can activate PANoptosis, which is involved in the development of cardiovascular diseases. These findings suggest that PANoptosis marks the point where the effectiveness of chemotherapy against tumors overlaps with the onset and development of cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, previous studies have demonstrated that CIC can simultaneously induce pyrodeath, apoptosis, and necrotic apoptosis. Therefore, PANoptosis may represent a potential mechanism and target for the prevention of CIC. This study explored the interactions among the three main mechanisms of PCD, pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis in CICs and analyzed the relevant literature on PANoptosis and CICs. The purpose of this work is to serve as a reference for future investigations on the role of PANoptosis in the development and mitigation of cardiotoxicity associated with chemotherapy.

A novel small molecule NJH-13 induces pyroptosis via the Ca2+ driven AKT-FOXO1-GSDME signaling pathway in NSCLC by targeting TRPV5

INTRODUCTION

Pyroptosis represents a mode of programmed necrotic cell death (PCD), mediated by members of gasdermin family (GSDMs), such as GSDME. It is emerging as a promising approach for combating cancer. Notably, GSDME is the key modulator for the switch between apoptosis and pyroptosis in cells. However, GSDME is often downregulated in many malignancies, including lung adenocarcinoma.

OBJECTIVE

To identify novel pyroptosis inducers in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and dissect the underlying mechanism.

METHODS

Pyroptosis was examined by live cell imaging, PI/Hoechst/Annexin V staining, LDH release assay, ELISA, and western blot assays. DARTS, CETSA, molecular docking was used to identify the target of NJH-13. RNA-seq, qPCR, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), dual luciferase assays were used elucidate the mechanism.

RESULTS

In this study, NJH-13, an N-containing heterocycle, was screened out and identified to possess the ability to activate GSDME, consequently triggering pyroptosis in NSCLC cells. By using the DARTS strategy, transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 5 (TRPV5) was identified as a potential target of NJH-13. NJH-13 increased intracellular calcium level and triggered oxidative stress, both of which are critical events leading to pyroptosis mediated by GSDME. Mechanistically, NJH-13 enhanced the transcription of GSDME via the protein kinase B (AKT)/forkhead box transcription factor O1 (FOXO1) signaling pathway. ChIP revealed that FOXO1 bound directly to the promoter region of GSDME, thus triggering the GSDME-mediated pyroptosis. Pharmacological and genetic activation of AKT or inhibition of FOXO1 partially rescued NJH-13-induced pyroptotic cell death. Moreover, NJH-13 treatment suppressed tumor growth in vivo.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, our results revealed that TRPV5 is a distinctive target for manipulating pyroptosis and provided evidence that NJH-13 functions as a potential anti-cancer agent capable of triggering pyroptosis in NSCLC cells.

Caspase-11 drives macrophage hyperinflammation in models of Polg-related mitochondrial disease

Mitochondrial diseases (MtD) represent a significant public health challenge due to their heterogenous clinical presentation, often severe and progressive symptoms, and lack of effective therapies. Environmental exposures, such bacterial and viral infection, can further compromise mitochondrial function and exacerbate the progression of MtD. Infections in MtD patients more frequently progress to sepsis, pneumonia, and other detrimental inflammatory endpoints. However, the underlying immune alterations that enhance immunopathology in MtD remain unclear, constituting a key gap in knowledge that complicates treatment and increases mortality in this vulnerable population. Here we employ in vitro and in vivo approaches to clarify the molecular and cellular basis for innate immune hyperactivity in models of polymerase gamma (Polg)-related MtD. We reveal that type I interferon (IFN-I)-mediated upregulation of caspase-11 and guanylate-binding proteins (GBPs) increase macrophage sensing of the opportunistic microbe Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) in Polg mutant mice. Furthermore, we show that excessive cytokine secretion and activation of pyroptotic cell death pathways contribute to lung inflammation and morbidity after infection with PA. Our work sheds new light on innate immune dysregulation in MtD and reveals potential targets for limiting infection- and inflammation-related complications in Polg-related MtD.

Regulation of reactive oxygen species and the role of mitochondrial apoptotic-related genes in rheumatoid arthritis

Previous research suggests mitochondrial apoptosis alleviates rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but the role of mitochondrial apoptosis-related genes (MARGs) is unclear. Urgent exploration of RA-related mitochondrial apoptosis biomarkers is needed. Gene Expression Ontology (GEO)-derived RA datasets were used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) compared to normal controls, intersected with MARGs to obtain differentially expressed mitochondrial apoptosis-related genes (DE-MARGs). Three ML algorithms screened diagnostic biomarkers. A nomogram was built and validated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA), regulatory network, and drug prediction explored biomarker mechanisms. Finally, key cells analysis included clustering, type annotation, pseudo-temporal study, and interaction, focusing on validated biomarker expression in those cells. A total of 147 DE-MARGs linked to energy & ROS metabolism were identified. Four validated biomarkers (MRPS10, EEF2, HSPA9, TUFM) formed a new RA diagnostic model. Moreover, GSEA linked them to oxidative phosphorylation. YY1 regulates EEF2, HSPA9, MRPS10; FOXO3 regulates EEF2, TUFM. Drugs like Nonoxynol-9, Nedocromil, Gadobutrol target these biomarkers. In addition, biomarkers are expressed in plasmablasts, with CD74 as a key receptor binding multiple ligands. RA biomarkers (MRPS10, EEF2, HSPA9, TUFM) linked to energy & ROS, progression tied to AMPK/mTOR, CD74-MIF crucial. Study advances RA pathogenesis knowledge, supporting clinical diagnosis.

The lactate metabolism and protein lactylation in epilepsy

Protein lactylation is a new form of post-translational modification that has recently been proposed. Lactoyl groups, derived mainly from the glycolytic product lactate, have been linked to protein lactylation in brain tissue, which has been shown to correlate with increased neuronal excitability. Ischemic stroke may promote neuronal glycolysis, leading to lactate accumulation in brain tissue. This accumulation of lactate accumulation may heighten neuronal excitability by upregulating protein lactylation levels, potentially triggering post-stroke epilepsy. Although current clinical treatments for seizures have advanced significantly, approximately 30% of patients with epilepsy remain unresponsive to medication, and the prevalence of epilepsy continues to rise. This study explores the mechanisms of epilepsy-associated neuronal death mediated by lactate metabolism and protein lactylation. This study also examines the potential for histone deacetylase inhibitors to alleviate seizures by modifying lactylation levels, thereby offering fresh perspectives for future research into the pathogenesis and clinical treatment of epilepsy.