Role of pyroptosis in cancer and its therapeutic regulation

Eur J Pharmacol. 2021 Nov 5:910:174444. doi: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174444. Epub 2021 Aug 26.

Abstract

Pyroptosis is mainly considered a gasdermin-regulated cell death mechanism characterized by cellular lysis and the release of several pro-inflammatory factors. Nowadays, pyroptosis has notably been gained extensive attention from clinicians and researchers. However, current studies report that downregulation of pyroptosis-mediated cell death plays a significant role in developing multiple cancers. Increasing studies also suggest that pyroptosis can impact all stages of carcinogenesis. Inducing pyroptotic cellular death could be a promising therapeutic option for managing and regulating multiple cancers in the near future. Our current review highlights the molecular and morphological features of pyroptosis and its potential roles in various cancers. In addition, we have also highlighted the biological characteristics and significances of GSDMD and GSDME and their critical functions in cancer progression, management and regulation.

Keywords: Cancer; Caspase-1; GSDMD; GSDME; NLRP3; Pyroptosis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antineoplastic Agents / pharmacology
  • Humans
  • Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins / metabolism
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Neoplasms / metabolism*
  • Phosphate-Binding Proteins / metabolism
  • Pyroptosis / drug effects*
  • Receptors, Estrogen / metabolism
  • Signal Transduction / drug effects

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins
  • Phosphate-Binding Proteins
  • Receptors, Estrogen