Molecular definitions of cell death subroutines: recommendations of the Nomenclature Committee on Cell Death 2012

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.

Immunogenic cell death as interplay between physical anticancer modalities and immunotherapy

Current cancer treatment strategies in practice nowadays often face limitations in effectiveness due to factors such as resistance, recurrence, or suboptimal outcomes. Traditional approaches like chemotherapy often come with severe systemic side effects due to their non-specific action, prompting the development of more targeted therapies. Among these, physical ablation techniques such as radiotherapy (RT) and focused ultrasound (FUS) have gained attention for their ability to precisely target malignant tissues, reduce physical and mental stress for the patients, and minimize recovery time. These therapies also aim to stimulate the immune system through a process referred to as immunogenic cell death (ICD), enhancing the body's ability to fight cancer, explaining abscopal effects. RT has been the most established of the abovementioned techniques for decades, and will not be included in the review. While initially focused on complete tumor ablation, these techniques are now shifting towards milder, more controlled applications that induce ICD without extensive tissue damage. This review explores how physical ablation therapies can harness ICD to boost anticancer immunity, emphasizing their potential to complement immunotherapies and improve outcomes for cancer patients.

Extracellular vesicles therapy alleviates cisplatin-ınduced testicular tissue toxicity in a rat model

PURPOSE

Cisplatin is a commonly used chemotherapy agent effective against various cancers, however it induces significant gonadotoxicity and infertility due to its adverse effects on testicular function. The underlying mechanisms of cisplatin-induced testicular damage include oxidative stress and dysregulated autophagy. This study investigates the potential of extracellular vesicles (EVs) to mitigate cisplatin-induced testicular damage through their regenerative, antioxidant, and autophagy-modulating properties.

METHODS

In the testicular toxicity model, thirty-two male rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 8): control, EVs-only, Cis-only, and Cis + EVs. A single intraperitoneal dose of 7.5mg/kg cisplatin was administered on the first day. On the six day, the EVs treatment group received a single dose of EVs (8x107/100μl) intravenously. Animals were sacrificed on day eight. Testicular histoarchitecture was assessed via hematoxylin and eosin staining. Sperm parameters, including motility and count, were measured using light microscopy. Hormone levels (testosterone and inhibin) were determined via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Oxidative stress markers, such as glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and is a metabolite malondialdehyde (MDA), were quantified using colorimetric assays. Autophagy and steroidogenesis were evaluated through immunohistochemical analysis of Beclin-1, p62, LC3-2, SF-1, and StAR.

RESULTS

Cisplatin exposure caused significant testicular damage, characterized by reduced germinal epithelium and degeneration of seminiferous tubules (p < 0.001). These structural changes led to hormonal imbalances, as evidenced by declines in testosterone (p < 0.005) and inhibin (p < 0.001). Additionally, sperm motility (p < 0.05) and count (p < 0.001) were adversely affected. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed upregulation of autophagy markers (p < 0.001), indicating heightened autophagic activity, alongside downregulation of steroidogenic factors (p < 0.001), which contributed to impaired steroidogenesis. Elevated levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) (p < 0.01) and decreased activities of antioxidant enzymes-GSH-PX, SOD, and CAT (p < 0.001) pointed to increased oxidative stress as a contributing mechanism. In contrast, treatment with extracellular vesicles (EVs) significantly improved testicular histoarchitecture (p < 0.001) and restored hormonal levels toward normal (testosterone p < 0.005, inhibin p < 0.001). Furthermore, EVs reduced the expression of autophagy markers (p < 0.001) and enhanced the levels of steroidogenic factors (p < 0.05). Notably, MDA levels decreased (p < 0.001), while antioxidant activities increased (p < 0.001), suggesting a protective effect of EVs against oxidative stress.

CONCLUSION

EVs protect against cisplatin-induced reproductive toxicity by modulating oxidative stress and autophagy pathways, preserving testicular function and fertility. These findings suggest that EVs may be a promising therapeutic strategy for mitigating cisplatin's negative effects on reproductive health. Further exploration of dosing regimens and localized applications is recommended for improved efficacy.

HSP90 regulates dCK stability and inhibits ionizing radiation-induced ferroptosis in cervical cancer cells

Cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CESC) is one of the most common cancers in women, and radiotherapy has been used as a primary treatment. However, its efficacy is limited by intrinsic and acquired radiation resistance. Our previous study demonstrated that Deoxycytidine kinase (dCK) inhibits ionizing radiation (IR)-induced cell death, including apoptosis and mitotic catastrophe, and dCK is a HSP90-interacting protein by mass spectrometry and co-immunoprecipitation assay. In the present study, we found that dCK inhibited IR-induced ferroptosis by increasing the activity and stability of SLC7A11. Using the E3 ubiquitin ligase database (UbiBrowser), we predicted NEDD4L as a potential ubiquitin ligase of dCK, and WWP1/2 as potential ubiquitin ligases of NEDD4L, respectively. These predictions were subsequently verified through a ubiquitination IP assay. Our findings indicate that HSP90 regulates dCK stability by inhibiting NEDD4L through the recruitment of ubiquitin ligases WWP1/2. In summary, our study reveals the HSP90-WWP1/WWP2-NEDD4L-dCK-SLC7A11 axis as a critical regulator of IR-induced ferroptosis in HeLa cells. These findings provide valuable insights into potential strategies for the radiosensitization of cervical cancer.

Discovery of novel sitolactone derivative leading to PANoptosis and differentiation of acute myeloid leukemia cells

Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is a devastating hematologic malignancy. Chemotherapy remains the primary treatment, offering rapid disease control and potential complete remission. However, more than half of the patients develop resistance and relapse, significantly reducing patient survival. Research has shown that drug-resistance and recurrence of AML are closely linked to leukemic stemness. Consequently, discovering new anti-Leukemia stem cell (LSC) compounds is a promising strategy for the treatment of AML in clinic. Additionally, the recent focus on inducing non-apoptotic programmed cell death in AML cells presents an alternative direction for therapeutic drug development, targeting current anti-apoptotic pathways. In this study, novel Sitolactone analogues, potential anti-LSCs compounds, were designed and synthesized based on the "biomimetic design" strategy. Compound 42 was found to significantly inhibit proliferation of AML cells. Subsequent biological evaluation revealed that this compound not only reduced the population of LSCs but also effectively induced PANoptosis in AML cells. Given the active compound's poor water solubility, a prodrug modification strategy was employed to enhance in vivo delivery with superior oral bioavailability and PK properties. This approach significantly suppressed AML cell growth in a mouse orthotropic model with favorable in vivo tolerance.

ESCRT III-mediated lysosomal repair improve renal tubular cell injury in cisplatin-induced AKI

The chemotherapeutic agent cisplatin is widely utilized for the treatment of various solid tumors. However, its clinical utility is limited by nephrotoxicity. Although numerous studies have demonstrated the potential of enhancing macroautophagy/autophagy in alleviating cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury (AKI), the dynamics of the autophagic process during renal tubular injury remain to be elucidated. In our investigation, we observed that cisplatin treatment leads to increased expression of LC3-II, GABARAPL1, SQSTM1/p62 and NBR1 in mouse renal tubular epithelial cells and BUMPT cells. Moreover, ultrastructurally, there is extensive accumulation of autophagic vacuoles in AKI mice. These findings imply that cisplatin-induced AKI results in impaired autophagic flow within renal tubular cells. Furthermore, LGALS3 (galectin 3) was found to be enriched in lysosomes after cisplatin treatment, revealing a close association between autophagy dysfunction and impaired lysosomal membrane integrity. Given the damaging contents of lysosomes, lysosomal membrane permeabilization must be rapidly resolved. Our findings showed that ESCRT III subunit CHMP4A-mediated lysosomal membrane repair significantly ameliorates autophagic defects and protects against lysosomal damage-induced cell death in a cisplatin-induced AKI model. In conclusion, our study indicates that ESCRT III-mediated lysosomal repair can relieve cisplatin-induced cell apoptosis and restore normal autophagy function in renal tubular epithelial cells. This mechanism plays a protective role against cisplatin-induced AKI.Abbreviations: AAV: adeno-associated virus; AKI: acute kidney injury; CQ: chloroquine; ESCRT: endosomal sorting complex required for transport; LMP: lysosomal membrane permeabilization; MAP1LC3/LC3: microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3; MTOR: mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase; PAS: periodic acid Schiff; PTECs: proximal renal tubule epithelial cells; TEM: transmission electron microscopy; TUNEL: terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling.

In vitro genotoxic and mutagenic potentials of combustion particles from marine fuels with different sulfur contents

Ship emissions significantly impact both the environment and human health. To address these concerns, the International Maritime Organization has imposed restrictions on the sulfur content in marine fuels. Specifically, the fuel sulfur content (FSC) must be below 0.5% m/m globally and below 0.1% m/m in designated sulfur emission control areas. These regulations apply to a range of fuels including distillate diesel-like fuels and low-sulfur heavy fuel oils (HFOs). As a result, there has been a reduction in emissions, particularly sulfur oxides and particulate matter (PM). However, the relationship between FSC and the toxicity of ship emissions remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate how the physical and chemical properties of PM from a marine engine operating on five marine fuels with varying FSCs, influence toxicological outcomes. For this scope, the study assessed cytotoxic, genotoxic, mutagenic, and pro-inflammatory effects of the emitted particles using lung cell models. The involvement of intracellular reactive oxygen species and xenobiotic metabolism was also exanimated. The results showed that PM from the combustion of different fuels reduced cell viability and clonogenicity at the highest concentration. However, other toxicological outcomes, such as genotoxic potential, were more strongly associated with the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon content of the PM than with FSC. Notably, an aromatic-rich HFO with intermediate FSC induced a significant increase in gene mutation frequency and alterations of cellular processes. In conclusion, while reducing FSC is an important step in mitigating ship emissions, this study underscores the need for a comprehensive evaluation of fuel properties.

The dynamic role of ferroptosis in cancer immunoediting: Implications for immunotherapy

Currently, cancer immunotherapy strategies are primarily formulated based on the patient's present condition, representing a "static" treatment approach. However, cancer progression is inherently "dynamic," as the immune environment is not fixed but undergoes continuous changes. This dynamism is characterized by the ongoing interactions between tumor cells and immune cells, which ultimately lead to alterations in the tumor immune microenvironment. This process can be effectively elucidated by the concept of cancer immunoediting, which divides tumor development into three phases: "elimination," "equilibrium," and "escape." Consequently, adjusting immunotherapy regimens based on these distinct phases may enhance patient survival and improve prognosis. Targeting ferroptosis is an emerging area in cancer immunotherapy, and our findings reveal that the antioxidant systems associated with ferroptosis possess dual roles, functioning differently across the three phases of cancer immunoediting. Therefore, this review delve into the dual role of the ferroptosis antioxidant system in tumor development and progression. It also propose immunotherapy strategies targeting ferroptosis at different stages, ultimately aiming to illuminate the significant implications of targeting ferroptosis at various phases for cancer immunotherapy.

Natural flavonoids from herbs and nutraceuticals as ferroptosis inhibitors in central nervous system diseases: current preclinical evidence and future perspectives

Flavonoids are a class of important polyphenolic compounds, renowned for their antioxidant properties. However, recent studies have uncovered an additional function of these natural flavonoids: their ability to inhibit ferroptosis. Ferroptosis is a key mechanism driving cell death in central nervous system (CNS) diseases, including both acute injuries and chronic neurodegenerative disorders, characterized by iron overload-induced lipid peroxidation and dysfunction of the antioxidant defense system. This review discusses the therapeutic potential of natural flavonoids from herbs and nutraceuticals as ferroptosis inhibitors in CNS diseases, focusing on their molecular mechanisms, summarizing findings from preclinical animal models, and providing insights for clinical translation. We specifically highlight natural flavonoids such as Baicalin, Baicalein, Chrysin, Vitexin, Galangin, Quercetin, Isoquercetin, Eriodictyol, Proanthocyanidin, (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate, Dihydromyricetin, Soybean Isoflavones, Calycosin, Icariside II, and Safflower Yellow, which have shown promising results in animal models of acute CNS injuries, including ischemic stroke, cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury, intracerebral hemorrhage, subarachnoid hemorrhage, traumatic brain injury, and spinal cord injury. Among these, Baicalin and its precursor Baicalein stand out due to extensive research and favorable outcomes in acute injury models. Mechanistically, these flavonoids not only regulate the Nrf2/ARE pathway and activate GPX4/GSH-related antioxidant pathways but also modulate iron metabolism proteins, thereby alleviating iron overload and inhibiting ferroptosis. While flavonoids show promise as ferroptosis inhibitors for CNS diseases, especially in acute injury settings, further studies are needed to evaluate their efficacy, safety, pharmacokinetics, and blood-brain barrier penetration for clinical application.

Salidroside Derivative SHPL-49 Exerts Anti-Neuroinflammatory Effects by Modulating Excessive Autophagy in Microglia

The neuroinflammation triggered by cellular demise plays a pivotal role in ameliorating the injury associated with ischemic stroke, which represents a significant global burden of mortality and disability. The compound SHPL-49, a derivative of rhodioloside, was discovered by our research team and has previously demonstrated neuroprotective effects in rats with ischemic stroke. This study aimed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of SHPL-49's protective effects. Preliminary investigations revealed that SHPL-49 effectively alleviates PMCAO-induced neuroinflammation. Further studies indicated that SHPL-49 downregulates the expression of the lysosomal protein LAMP-2 and reduces lysosomal activity, impeding the fusion of lysosomes and autophagosomes, thus inhibiting excessive autophagy and increasing the expression levels of the autophagy proteins LC3-II and P62. Furthermore, SHPL-49 effectively reverses the NF-κB nuclear translocation induced by the autophagy inducer rapamycin, significantly lowering the expression levels of the inflammatory factors IL-6, IL-1β, and iNOS. In a co-culture system of BV2 and PC12 cells, SHPL-49 enhanced PC12 cell viability by inhibiting excessive autophagy in BV2 cells and reducing the ratio of apoptotic proteins Bax and BCL-2. The overall findings suggest that SHPL-49 exerts its neuroprotective effects through the inhibition of excessive autophagy and the suppression of the NF-κB signaling pathway in microglia, thereby attenuating neuroinflammation.

TAK1 at the crossroads of multiple regulated cell death pathways: from molecular mechanisms to human diseases

Regulated cell death (RCD), the form of cell death that can be genetically controlled by multiple signaling pathways, plays an important role in organogenesis, tissue remodeling, and maintenance of organism homeostasis and is closely associated with various human diseases. Transforming growth factor‐beta‐activated kinase 1 (TAK1) is a member of the serine/threonine protein kinase family, which can respond to different internal and external stimuli and participate in inflammatory and immune responses. Emerging evidence suggests that TAK1 is an important regulator at the crossroad of multiple RCD pathways, including apoptosis, necroptosis, pyroptosis, and PANoptosis. The regulation of TAK1 affects disease progression through multiple signaling pathways, and therapeutic strategies targeting TAK1 have been proposed for inflammatory diseases, central nervous system diseases, and cancers. In this review, we provide an overview of the downstream signaling pathways regulated by TAK1 and its binding proteins. Their critical regulatory roles in different forms of cell death are also summarized. In addition, we discuss the potential of targeting TAK1 in the treatment of human diseases, with a specific focus on neurological disorders and cancer.

The role of visfatin in peripheral immune organs and intestines of weaned piglets under lipopolysaccharide induced immune stress

To investigate the regulatory mechanisms and pathways of visfatin under immune stress injury in weaned piglets, we established a lipopolysaccharide-induced immune stress model in weaned piglets to study how visfatin affects peripheral immune organs and intestinal function. The results revealed that visfatin improved the inflammatory response in immune-stressed weaned piglets by reducing the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β, interleukin-6 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, as well as decreasing the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio. Visfatin ameliorated oxidative stress in piglets by promoting the expression of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase. It also enhanced cell proliferation in peripheral immune organs (spleen and mesenteric lymph nodes) and suppressed cell apoptosis in these organs through the death receptor apoptosis pathway, thereby improving the immune function of weaned piglets under immune stress. Moreover, it alleviated intestinal villi damage, increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria, and elevated the levels of short-chain fatty acids, thus preserving the intestinal barrier's integrity and the balance of intestinal microbiota. Hence, these data indicate that visfatin can ameliorate immune stress injury in weaned piglets by exerting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, enhancing immune organ and intestinal function.

Quercetin-3-Methyl Ether Induces Early Apoptosis to Overcome HRV1B Immune Evasion, Suppress Viral Replication, and Mitigate Inflammatory Pathogenesis

Human rhinovirus (HRV) causes the common cold and exacerbates chronic respiratory diseases, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Despite its significant impact on public health, there are currently no approved vaccines or antiviral treatments for HRV infection. Apoptosis is the process through which cells eliminate themselves through the systematic activation of intrinsic death pathways in response to various stimuli. It plays an important role in viral infections and serves as a key immune defense mechanism in the interactions between viruses and the host. In the present study, we investigated the antiviral effects of quercetin-3-methyl ether, a flavonoid isolated from Serratula coronata, on human rhinovirus 1B (HRV1B). Quercetin-3-methyl ether significantly inhibited HRV1B replication in HeLa cells in a concentration-dependent manner, thereby reducing cytopathic effects and viral RNA levels. Time-course and time-of-addition analyses confirmed that quercetin-3-methyl ether exhibited antiviral activity during the early stages of viral infection, potentially targeting the replication and translation phases. Gene expression analysis using microarrays revealed that pro-apoptotic genes were upregulated in quercetin-3-methyl ether-treated cells, suggesting that quercetin-3-methyl ether enhances early apoptosis to counteract HRV1B-induced immune evasion. In vivo administration of quercetin-3-methyl ether to HRV1B-infected mice significantly reduced viral RNA levels and inflammatory cytokine production in the lung tissues. Our findings demonstrated the potential of quercetin-3-methyl ether as a novel antiviral agent against HRV1B, thereby providing a promising therapeutic strategy for the management of HRV1B infections and related complications.

The Role of tRNA-Derived Small RNAs (tsRNAs) in Regulating Cell Death of Cardiovascular Diseases

Transfer RNA is a class of non-coding RNA that plays a role in amino acid translocation during protein synthesis. After specific modification, the cleaved fragment is called tRNA-derived small RNA. The advancement of bioinformatics technology has led to an increase in the visibility of small RNA derived from tRNA, and their functions in biological processes are being revealed. These include gene silencing, transcription and translation, epigenetics, and cell death. These properties have led to the implication of tsRNAs in various diseases. Although the current research mainly focuses on the role of tRNA-derived small RNA in cancer, there is mounting evidence that they are also strongly associated with cardiovascular disease, including cardiac hypertrophy, atrial fibrillation, heart failure, and myocarditis. Therefore, the regulatory role of tRNA-derived small RNA in cardiovascular disease will become an emerging therapeutic strategy. This review succinctly summarizes the characteristics, classification, and regulatory effect of tsRNA. By exploring the mechanism of tsRNA, it will provide a new tool for the diagnosis and prognosis of cardiovascular disease.

Mechanism of effect and therapeutic potential of NLRP3 inflammasome in spinal cord injury

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a serious and disabling central nervous system injury that can trigger various neuropathological conditions, resulting in neuronal damage and release of various pro-inflammatory mediators, leading to neurological dysfunction. Currently, surgical decompression, drugs and rehabilitation are primarily used to relieve symptoms and improve endogenous repair mechanisms; however, they cannot directly promote nerve regeneration and functional recovery. SCI can be divided into primary and secondary injuries. Secondary injury is key to determining the severity of injury, whereas inflammation and cell death are important pathological mechanisms in the process of secondary SCI. The activation of the inflammasome complex is thought to be a necessary step in neuro-inflammation and a key trigger for neuronal death. The NLRP3 inflammasome is a cytoplasmic multiprotein complex that is considered an important factor in the development of SCI. Once the NLRP3 inflammasome is activated after SCI, NLRP3 nucleates the assembly of an inflammasome, leading to caspase 1-mediated proteolytic activation of the interleukin-1β (IL-1β) family of cytokines, and induces an inflammatory, pyroptotic cell death. Inhibition of inflammasomes can effectively inhibit inflammation and cell death in the body and promote the recovery of nerve function after SCI. Therefore, inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activation may be a promising approach for the treatment of SCI. In this review, we describe the current understanding of NLRP3 inflammasome activation in SCI pathogenesis and its subsequent impact on SCI and summarize drugs and other potential inhibitors based on NLRP3 inflammasome regulation. The objective of this study was to emphasize the role of the NLRP3 inflammasome in SCI, and provide a new therapeutic strategy and theoretical basis for targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome as a therapy for SCI.

Chromothripsis in cancer

Chromothripsis is a mutational phenomenon in which a single catastrophic event generates extensive rearrangements of one or a few chromosomes. This extreme form of genome instability has been detected in 30-50% of cancers. Studies conducted in the past few years have uncovered insights into how chromothripsis arises and deciphered some of the cellular and molecular consequences of chromosome shattering. This Review discusses the defining features of chromothripsis and describes its prevalence across different cancer types as indicated by the manifestations of chromothripsis detected in human cancer samples. The different mechanistic models of chromothripsis, derived from in vitro systems that enable causal inference through experimental manipulation, are discussed in detail. The contribution of chromothripsis to cancer development, the selective advantages that cancer cells might gain from chromothripsis, the evolutionary trajectories of chromothriptic tumours, and the potential vulnerabilities and therapeutic opportunities presented by chromothriptic cells are also highlighted.

FOXP3 as a prognostic marker and therapeutic target in immunogenic cell death modulation for clear cell renal cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) remains a challenging cancer type due to its resistance to standard treatments. Immunogenic cell death (ICD) has the potential to activate anti-tumor immunity, presenting a promising avenue for ccRCC therapies.

METHODS

We analyzed data from GSE29609, TCGA-KIRC, and GSE159115 to identify ICD-related prognostic genes in ccRCC. By applying consensus clustering, patients were categorized based on ICD modification patterns, and an ICD signature (ICDS) model was developed using a PCA approach. Functional studies were conducted with FOXP3 knockdown in ccRCC cell lines to explore its impact on cell behavior.

RESULTS

Eleven ICD-related genes were identified as key prognostic indicators in ccRCC, with high ICDS linked to worse survival outcomes. High ICDS also correlated with increased levels of immune-suppressive cells within the tumor microenvironment. FOXP3 was highlighted as a critical gene influencing ICD, where its knockdown significantly reduced ccRCC cell proliferation and migration, underscoring its role in tumor progression.

CONCLUSIONS

This study establishes FOXP3 as a pivotal factor in ICD regulation and ccRCC progression. Targeting FOXP3 and other ICD pathways could enhance treatment efficacy in ccRCC, providing a foundation for ICD-based therapeutic strategies. Evaluating ICD patterns in ccRCC may guide patient-specific interventions, paving the way for improved management of this aggressive cancer.

Short-Term Fasting Induces Hepatocytes' Stress Response and Increases Their Resilience

Fasting leads to a range of metabolic adaptations that have developed through evolution, as humans and other mammals have unequal access to food over the circadian cycle and are therefore adapted to fasting and feeding cycles. We have investigated the role of a single fasting episode in rats in triggering the stress response of liver hepatocytes. Since the stress responses were observed in both animals and isolated cells, we investigated whether the effects of the animal stressor could persist in the cells after isolation. By measuring staurosporine-induced apoptosis, stress signalling, and oxidative and antioxidant responses in hepatocytes from fasted and ad libitum-fed animals, we found that only fasting animals elicited a stress response that prevented caspase-9 activation and persisted in isolated cells. The addition of glucose oxidase, a hydrogen peroxide-producing enzyme, to the cells from ad libitum-fed animals also led to a stress response phenotype and prevented the activation of caspase-9. A single fasting episode thus leads to a stress response in normal hepatocytes, with hydrogen peroxide as a second messenger that reduces the initiation of apoptosis. This finding is the first characterisation of a mechanism underlying the effects of fasting and provides a basis for the development of methods to increase the resilience of cells. These findings need to be taken into account when interpreting the results obtained in animal and cell research models to account for the effects of overnight fasting used in many laboratory protocols. The research results also form the basis for the development of clinical applications to increase the resistance of transplants and to improve the fitness of hepatocytes under acute stress conditions in liver and some metabolic diseases.

Galectins and Liver Diseases

Galectins are widely distributed throughout the animal kingdom, from marine sponges to mammals. Galectins are a family of soluble lectins that specifically recognize β-galactoside-containing glycans and are categorized into three subgroups based on the number and function of their carbohydrate recognition domains (CRDs). The interaction of galectins with specific ligands mediates a wide range of biological activities, depending on the cell type, tissue context, expression levels of individual galectin, and receptor involvement. Galectins affect various immune cell processes through both intracellular and extracellular mechanisms and play roles in processes, such as apoptosis, angiogenesis, and fibrosis. Their importance has increased in recent years because they are recognized as biomarkers, therapeutic agents, and drug targets, with many other applications in conditions such as cardiovascular diseases and cancer. However, little is known about the involvement of galectins in liver diseases. Here, we review the functions of various galectins and evaluate their roles in liver diseases.

Dopamine-D2-agonist targets mitochondrial dysfunction via diminishing Drp1 mediated fission and normalizing PGC1-α/SIRT3 pathways in a rodent model of Subarachnoid Haemorrhage

The adverse impact of disturbmitochondrialbiogenesis onearly brain injury (EBI) following subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) has been broadly recognized and is closely associated with oxidative stress and neuronal apoptosis. Previous studies have indicated the therapeutic potential of Ropinirole, a dopamine D2 agonist, in Ischemic Stroke. However, there is a lack of evidence regarding the ability of Ropinirole to enhance mitochondrial biogenesis and quality control after subarachnoid haemorrhage. The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of Ropinirole specific doses (10 & 20 mg/kg b. wt.) on mitochondria dysfunction in endovascular perforation SAH model in male Wistar rat. An endovascular perforation model was established using male Wistar rats that had sustained SAH injury. After the SAH injury, SAH grading on blood clot, Nissl staining, and neurobehavioral assessment were used to determine the severity. ROS and MMP, which are indicators of oxidative stress, were examined using flow cytometry. The findings demonstrated that the use of Ropinirole improved neurobehavioral outcomes, decreased brain edema, and reduced oxidative stress and mitochondrial based apoptosis. Further research showed that, Ropinirole therapy inhibit Drp1-mediated fission by accelerating the activity of fusion protein Mfn2/OPA1 along with regulating the translocation of PGC1-α and SIRT3 through restricting cytochrome C inside mitochondria to maintain mitochondrial metabolism. Ropinirole exerted neuroprotective effects by improving mitochondrial activity in a PGC1-α/SIRT3-dependent way via regulating Drp1 mediated fission. The effective treatment for SAH-induced EBI may involve increasing biogenesis and inhibiting excessive mitochondrial fission with Ropinirole.

Autosis: a new form of cell death in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury

Cardiomyocytes undergo a variety of cell death events during myocardial ischemia‒reperfusion injury (MIRI). Understanding the causes of cardiomyocyte mortality is critical for the prevention and treatment of MIRI. Among the various types of cell death, autosis is a recently identified type of autophagic cell death with distinct morphological and chemical characteristics. Autosis can be attenuated by autophagy inhibitors but not reversed by apoptosis or necrosis inhibitors. In recent years, it has been shown that during the late phase of reperfusion, autosis is activated, which exacerbates myocardial injury. This article describes the characteristics of autosis, autophagic cell death, and the relationship between autophagic cell death and autosis; reviews the mechanism of autosis in MIRI; and discusses its clinical significance.

Microsporidian Nosema bombycis secretes serine protease inhibitor to suppress host cell apoptosis via Caspase BmICE

Microsporidia are a group of intracellular pathogens that actively manipulate host cell biological processes to facilitate their intracellular niche. Apoptosis is an important defense mechanism by which host cell control intracellular pathogens. Microsporidia modulating host cell apoptosis has been reported previously, however the molecular mechanism is not yet clear. In this report, we describe that the microsporidia Nosema bombycis inhibits apoptosis of Bombyx mori cells through a secreted protein NbSPN14, which is a serine protease inhibitor (Serpin). An immunofluorescent assay demonstrated that upon infection with N. bombycis, NbSPN14 was initially found in the B. mori cell cytoplasm and then became enriched in the host cell nucleus. Overexpression and RNA-interference (RNAi) of NbSPN14 in B. mori' embryo cell confirmed that NbSPN14 inhibited host cells apoptosis. Immunofluorescent and Co-IP assays verified the co-localization and interaction of NbSPN14 with the BmICE, the Caspase 3 homolog in B. mori. Knocking out of BmICE or mutating the BmICE-interacting P1 site of NbSPN14, eliminated the localization of NbSPN14 into the host nucleus and prevented the apoptosis-inhibiting effect of NbSPN14, which also proved that the interaction between BmICE and NbSPN14 occurred in host cytoplasm and the NbSPN14 translocation into host cell nucleus depends on BmICE. These data elucidate that N. bombycis secretory protein NbSPN14 inhibits host cell apoptosis by directly inhibiting the Caspase protease BmICE, which provides an important insight for understanding pathogen-host interactions and a potential therapeutic target for N. bombycis proliferation.

Mitochondrial dysfunction in pancreatic acinar cells: mechanisms and therapeutic strategies in acute pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an inflammatory disease of the pancreas and a complex process involving multiple factors, with mitochondrial damage playing a crucial role. Mitochondrial dysfunction is now considered a key driver in the development of AP. This dysfunction often presents as increased oxidative stress, altered membrane potential and permeability, and mitochondrial DNA damage and mutations. Under stress conditions, mitochondrial dynamics and mitochondrial ROS production increase, leading to decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, imbalanced calcium homeostasis, and activation of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore. The release of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), recognized as damage-associated molecular patterns, can activate the cGAS-STING1 and NF-κB pathway and induce pro-inflammatory factor expression. Additionally, mtDNA can activate inflammasomes, leading to interleukin release and subsequent tissue damage and inflammation. This review summarizes the relationship between mitochondria and AP and explores mitochondrial protective strategies in the diagnosis and treatment of this disease. Future research on the treatment of acute pancreatitis can benefit from exploring promising avenues such as antioxidants, mitochondrial inhibitors, and new therapies that target mitochondrial dysfunction.

Regulated Cell Death of Alveolar Macrophages in Acute Lung Inflammation: Current Knowledge and Perspectives

Acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome (ALI/ARDS) is a common and serious clinical lung disease characterized by extensive alveolar damage and inflammation leading to impaired gas exchange. Alveolar macrophages (AMs) maintain homeostatic properties and immune defenses in lung tissues. Several studies have reported that AMs are involved in and regulate ALI/ARDS onset and progression via different regulated cell death (RCD) programs, such as pyroptosis, apoptosis, autophagic cell death, and necroptosis. Notably, the effects of RCD in AMs in disease are complex and variable depending on the environment and stimuli. In this review, we provide a comprehensive perspective on how regulated AMs death impacts on ALI/ARDS and assess its potential in new therapeutic development. Additionally, we describe the crosstalk between different RCD types in ALI, and provide new perspectives for the treatment of ALI/ARDS and other severe lung diseases.

Temporal RAGE Over-Expression Disrupts Lung Development by Modulating Apoptotic Signaling

Receptors for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) are multiligand cell surface receptors found most abundantly in lung tissue. This study sought to evaluate the role of RAGE in lung development by using a transgenic (TG) mouse model that spatially and temporally controlled RAGE overexpression. Histological imaging revealed that RAGE upregulation from embryonic day (E) 15.5 to E18.5 led to a thickened alveolar parenchyma and reduced alveolar surface area, while RAGE overexpression from E0 to E18.5 caused a significant loss of tissue and decreased architecture. Mitochondrial dysfunction was a hallmark of RAGE-mediated disruption, with decreased levels of anti-apoptotic BCL-W and elevated pro-apoptotic BID, SMAC, and HTRA2, indicating compromised mitochondrial integrity and increased intrinsic apoptotic activity. Extrinsic apoptotic signaling was similarly dysregulated, as evidenced by the increased expression of TNFRSF21, Fas/FasL, and Trail R2 in E0-18.5 RAGE TG mice. Additionally, reductions in IGFBP-3 and IGFBP-4, coupled with elevated p53 and decreased p27 expression, highlighted disruptions in the cell survival and cycle regulatory pathways. Despite the compensatory upregulation of inhibitors of apoptosis proteins (cIAP-2, XIAP, and Survivin), tissue loss and structural damage persisted. These findings underscore RAGE's role as a pivotal modulator of lung development. Specifically, the timing of RAGE upregulation significantly impacts lung development by influencing pathways that cause distinct histological phenotypes. This research may foreshadow how RAGE signaling plausibly contributes to developmental lung diseases.

Metabolism: a potential regulator of neutrophil fate

Neutrophils are essential components of the innate immune system that defend against the invading pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi, as well as having regulatory roles in various conditions, including tissue repair, cancer immunity, and inflammation modulation. The function of neutrophils is strongly related to their mode of cell death, as different types of cell death involve various cellular and molecular alterations. Apoptosis, a non-inflammatory and programmed type of cell death, is the most common in neutrophils, while other modes of cell death, including NETOsis, necrosis, necroptosis, autophagy, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis, have specific roles in neutrophil function regulation. Immunometabolism refers to energy and substance metabolism in immune cells, and profoundly influences immune cell fate and immune system function. Intercellular and intracellular signal transduction modulate neutrophil metabolism, which can, in turn, alter their activities by influencing various cell signaling pathways. In this review, we compile an extensive body of evidence demonstrating the role of neutrophil metabolism in their various forms of cell death. The review highlights the intricate metabolic characteristics of neutrophils and their interplay with various types of cell death.

Non-coding RNA: A key regulator in the Glutathione-GPX4 pathway of ferroptosis

Ferroptosis, a form of regulated cell death, has emerged as a crucial process in diverse pathophysiological states, encompassing cancer, neurodegenerative ailments, and ischemia-reperfusion injury. The glutathione (GSH)-dependent lipid peroxidation pathway, chiefly governed by glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), assumes an essential part in driving ferroptosis. GPX4, as the principal orchestrator of ferroptosis, has garnered significant attention across cancer, cardiovascular, and neuroscience domains over the past decade. Noteworthy investigations have elucidated the indispensable functions of ferroptosis in numerous diseases, including tumorigenesis, wherein robust ferroptosis within cells can impede tumor advancement. Recent research has underscored the complex regulatory role of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in regulating the GSH-GPX4 network, thus influencing cellular susceptibility to ferroptosis. This exhaustive review endeavors to probe into the multifaceted processes by which ncRNAs control the GSH-GPX4 network in ferroptosis. Specifically, we delve into the functions of miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs in regulating GPX4 expression and impacting cellular susceptibility to ferroptosis. Moreover, we discuss the clinical implications of dysregulated interactions between ncRNAs and GPX4 in several conditions, underscoring their capacity as viable targets for therapeutic intervention. Additionally, the review explores emerging strategies aimed at targeting ncRNAs to modulate the GSH-GPX4 pathway and manipulate ferroptosis for therapeutic advantage. A comprehensive understanding of these intricate regulatory networks furnishes insights into innovative therapeutic avenues for diseases associated with perturbed ferroptosis, thereby laying the groundwork for therapeutic interventions targeting ncRNAs in ferroptosis-related pathological conditions.

Silencing Nrf2 in cisplatin resistant non-small cell lung cancer cells augments sensitivity towards EGFR inhibitor

Recently, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has been the prime concern of cancer clinicians due to its high mortality rate worldwide. Cisplatin, a platinum derivative, has been used as a therapeutic option for treating metastatic NSCLC for several years. However, acquired, or intrinsic drug resistance to Cisplatin is the major obstacle to the successful treatment outcome of patients. Dysregulation of Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) and EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) signaling have been associated with cellular proliferation, cancer initiation, progression and confer drug resistance to several therapeutic agents including Cisplatin in various cancers. To dissect the molecular mechanism of EGFR activation in resistant cells, we developed Cisplatin-resistant (CisR) human NSCLC cell lines (A549 and NCIH460) with increasing doses of Cisplatin treatment over a 3-month period. CisR cells demonstrated increased proliferative capacity, clonogenic survivability and drug efflux activity compared to the untreated parental (PT) cells. These resistant cells also showed higher levels of Nrf2 and EGFR expression. Here, we found that Nrf2 upregulates both basal and inducible expression of EGFR in these CisR cells at the transcriptional level. Moreover, genetic inhibition of Nrf2 with siRNA in CisR cells showed increased sensitivity towards the EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKIs), AG1478. Our study, therefore suggests the use of Nrf2 inhibitors in combinatorial therapy with EGFR TKIs for the treatment of resistant NSCLC.

Relationship between serum NLRP3 along with its effector molecules and pregnancy outcomes in women with hyperglycemia

OBJECTIVE

The study aims to investigate the levels of serum NLRP3 along with its effector molecules (Caspase-1, IL-1β, and IL-18) in the mid-pregnancy in pregnant women with hyperglycemia, and explore the relationship between NLRP3, along with its effector molecules (Caspase-1, IL-1β, and IL-18) and insulin resistance, as well as pregnancy outcomes.

METHODS

The levels of serum NLRP3 along with its effector molecules (Caspase-1, IL-1β, and IL-18) in three groups of pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), pregestational diabetes mellitus (PGDM) and normal glucose tolerance (NGT) were measured in mid-pregnancy, and their relationship with insulin resistance and pregnancy outcomes was analyzed. The ROC curve was also used to evaluate the predictive value of serum NLRP3 inflammasome and its effector molecules for pregnancy outcomes.

RESULTS

There were no statistical differences in the general clinical data of the three groups, and the concentrations of serum NLRP3 along with its effector molecules were higher in the GDM and PGDM groups than in the NGT group, and NLRP3 along with its effector molecules were positively correlated with fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, and insulin resistance index in both groups (r > 0, p < .05). The incidence of preterm delivery, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, premature rupture of membranes, neonatal hypoglycemia and macrosomia was significantly higher in both groups than in the NGT group (p < .05). The value of the combined serum NLRP3 and its effector molecules in mid-pregnancy to predict adverse pregnancy outcomes was highest, and the AUCs for the combined prediction of late hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, premature rupture of membranes, preterm delivery, neonatal hypoglycemia and macrosomia were 0.84 (95% CI 0.79-0.88, p < .001), 0.81 (95% CI 0.75-0.85, p < .001), 0.76 (95% CI 0.70-0.81, p < .001), 0.76 (95% CI 0.70-0.81, p < .001) and 0.72 (95% CI 0.63-0.81, p < .001), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Increased serum NLRP3 along with its effector molecules in pregnant women with hyperglycemia are associated with the levels of insulin resistance and the subsequent development of adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Activation of retinoid X receptors protects retinal neurons and pigment epithelial cells from BMAA-induced death

Exposure to the non-protein amino acid cyanotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA), released by cyanobacteria found in many water reservoirs has been associated with neurodegenerative diseases. We previously demonstrated that BMAA induced cell death in both retina photoreceptors (PHRs) and amacrine neurons by triggering different molecular pathways, as activation of NMDA receptors and formation of carbamate-adducts was only observed in amacrine cell death. We established that activation of Retinoid X Receptors (RXR) protects retinal cells, including retina pigment epithelial (RPE) cells from oxidative stress-induced apoptosis. We now investigated the mechanisms underlying BMAA toxicity in these cells and those involved in RXR protection. BMAA addition to rat retinal neurons during early development in vitro increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and polyADP ribose polymers (PAR) formation, while pre-treatment with serine (Ser) before BMAA addition decreased PHR death. Notably, RXR activation with the HX630 agonist prevented BMAA-induced death in both neuronal types, reducing ROS generation, preserving mitochondrial potential, and decreasing TUNEL-positive cells and PAR formation. This suggests that BMAA promoted PHR death by substituting Ser in polypeptide chains and by inducing polyADP ribose polymerase activation. BMAA induced cell death in ARPE-19 cells, a human epithelial cell line; RXR activation prevented this death, decreasing ROS generation and caspase 3/7 activity. These findings suggest that RXR activation prevents BMAA harmful effects on retinal neurons and RPE cells, supporting this activation as a broad-spectrum strategy for treating retina degenerations.

Mitochondrial dysfunction matures Ras-induced early senescence to full senescence with a proinflammatory senescence-associated secretory phenotype in the fish cell line, EPC

Fish cell lines differ from most mammalian diploid cell lines by the fact that cellular senescence is not readily induced. Previously, we demonstrated that the absence of the p16 gene in the fish genome prevents cells from reaching full senescence even when Ras is activated. Drosophila also lacks p16; however, early senescence triggered by Ras activation progresses to full senescence and is accompanied by a proinflammatory senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), due to mitochondrial deficiency. It is unclear whether mitochondrial deficiency can also induce the maturation of Ras-induced early senescence (RIS) to full senescence along with a proinflammatory SASP in fish cell lines. Here, we investigated whether mitochondrial dysfunction induced by carbonyl cyanide 3-chlorophenylhydrazone (CCCP) in concert with activated Ras results in full senescence and whether this is accompanied by a proinflammatory SASPs in the EPC fish cell line. We found that although EPC cells with mitochondrial dysfunction exhibited a proinflammatory SASP, this did not result in permanent cell proliferation arrest or the upregulation of endogenous Ras expression. These findings suggest that other factors must act in concert with mitochondrial dysfunction to induce full senescence. The proliferation of EPC cells overexpressing a constitutively active mutant of H-Ras (H-RasV12) was markedly reduced, irrespective of CCCP treatment. These findings suggest that there are similarities between the cellular senescence observed in fish and Drosophila cells lacking the p16 gene. However, it should be noted that fish cells differ from Drosophila cells in that mitochondrial dysfunction alone can induce proinflammatory SASP factors.

Beclin-1: a therapeutic target at the intersection of autophagy, immunotherapy, and cancer treatment

The significant identification of Beclin-1's function in regulating autophagy flow signified a significant progression in our understanding of cellular operations. Beclin-1 acts as a scaffold for forming the PI3KC3 complex, controlling autophagy and cellular trafficking processes in a complicated way. This intricate protein has garnered considerable attention due to its substantial impact on the development of tumors. Strong evidence indicates Beclin-1 plays a critical role in controlling autophagy in various human cancer types and its intricate connection with apoptosis and ferroptosis. The potential of Beclin-1 as a viable target for cancer therapy is highlighted by its associations with key autophagy regulators such as AMPK, mTOR, and ATGs. Beclin-1 controls the growth and dissemination of tumors by autophagy. It also affects how tumors react to therapies such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The role of Beclin-1 in autophagy can influence apoptosis, depending on whether it supports cell survival or leads to cell death. Beclin-1 plays a crucial role in ferroptosis by increasing ATG5 levels, which in turn promotes autophagy-triggered ferroptosis. Finally, we analyzed the possible function of Beclin-1 in tumor immunology and drug sensitivity in cancers. In general, Beclin-1 has a significant impact on regulating autophagy, offering various potentials for medical intervention and altering our understanding of cancer biology.

Dual Role of Lysosome in Cancer Development and Progression

Lysosomes are essential intracellular catabolic organelles that contain digestive enzymes involved in the degradation and recycle of damaged proteins, organelles, etc. Thus, they play an important role in various biological processes, including autophagy regulation, ion homeostasis, cell death, cell senescence. A myriad of studies has shown that the dysfunction of lysosome is implicated in human aging and various age-related diseases, including cancer. However, what is noteworthy is that the modulation of lysosome-based signaling and degradation has both the cancer-suppressive and cancer-promotive functions in diverse cancers depending on stage, biology, or tumor microenvironment. This dual role limits their application as targets in cancer therapy. In this review, we provide an overview of lysosome and autophagy-lysosomal pathway and outline their critical roles in many cellular processes, including cell death. We highlight the different functions of autophagy-lysosomal pathway in cancer development and progression, underscoring its potential as a target for effective cancer therapies.

Suppression of JNK pathway protects neurons from oxidative injury via attenuating parthanatos in glutamate-treated HT22 neurons

Oxidative stress causes diverse neurological disorders. Parthanatos is a type of programmed cell death, characterised by strong activation of poly (ADP-ribose) (PAR) polymerase-1 (PARP-1), PAR polymer accumulation, and nuclear translocation of apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF), and is involved in cellular oxidative injury. Signalling by c-Jun-N-terminal protein kinase (JNK) is activated by reactive oxygen species (ROS), and this also contributes to ROS production. However, the exact relationship between JNK signalling and parthanatos in neurological disorders triggered by oxidative stress is unclear. In this study, glutamate-treated HT22 neurons were used to investigate whether the signalling by JNK contributes a regulatory role to parthanatos in oxidative stress-related neurological disease. JNK signalling was activated in glutamate-treated HT22 neurons, demonstrated via upregulation of p-JNK levels. Pre-treatment with SP600125 markedly inhibited JNK signalling, increased cell viability, and significantly reversed PARP-1 overproduction, PAR polymer accumulation, and nuclear AIF translocation. In addition, inhibition of JNK signalling severely reduced the production of both intracellular ROS and mitochondria superoxide. This study indicated that parthanatos in glutamate-treated HT22 neurons could be suppressed by JNK signalling inhibition. JNK activation participated in parthanatos via an increase in intracellular ROS levels.

[Research progress on the regulatory cell death of osteoblasts in periodontitis]

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by progressive destruction of alveolar bone. The most critical mechanism underlying alveolar bone destruction is the imbalance of bone homeostasis, where osteoblast-mediated bone matrix synthesis plays an important role in regulating bone homeostasis. Regulated cell death is instrumental in both the inflammatory microenvironment and the regulation of bone homeostasis. Chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and other factors can be directly involved in mitochondrial and death receptor-mediated signaling pathways, modulating B-cell lymphoma 2 family proteins and cysteine aspartic acid specific protease (caspase) activity, thereby affecting osteoblast apoptosis and alveolar bone homeostasis. Chronic inflammation and cellular damage induce osteoblast necroptosis via the RIPK1/RIPK3/MLKL signaling pathway, exacerbating the inflammatory response and accelerating alveolar bone destruction. Stimuli such as pathogenic microorganisms and cellular injury may also activate caspase-1-dependent or independent signaling pathways and gasdermin D family proteins, promoting osteoblast pyroptosis and releasing pro-inflammatory cytokines to mediate alveolar bone damage. Iron overload and lipid peroxidation in periodontitis can trigger ferroptosis in osteoblasts, impacting their survival and function, ultimately leading to bone homeostasis imbalance. This article focuses on the mechanism of periodontal disease affecting bone homeostasis through regulatory cell death, aiming to provide research evidence for the treatment of periodontitis and alveolar bone homeostasis imbalance.

Paraptosis-A Distinct Pathway to Cell Death

Cell death is a critical biological process necessary for development, tissue maintenance, and defense against diseases. To date, more than 20 forms of cell death have been identified, each defined by unique molecular pathways. Understanding these different forms of cell death is essential for investigating the pathogenesis of diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and autoimmune conditions and developing appropriate therapies. Paraptosis is a distinct form of regulated cell death characterized by cytoplasmic vacuolation and dilatation of cellular organelles like the mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum (ER). It is regulated by several signaling pathways, for instance, those associated with ER stress, calcium overload, oxidative stress, and specific cascades such as insulin-like growth factor I receptor (IGF-IR) and its downstream signaling pathways comprising mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). Paraptosis has been observed in diverse biological contexts, including development and cellular stress responses in neuronal, retinal, endothelial, and muscle cells. The induction of paraptosis is increasingly important in anticancer therapy, as it targets non-apoptotic stress responses in tumor cells, which can be utilized to induce cell death. This approach enhances treatment efficacy and addresses drug resistance, particularly in cases where cancer cells are resistant to apoptosis. Combining paraptosis-inducing agents with traditional therapies holds promise for enhancing treatment efficacy and overcoming drug resistance, suggesting a valuable strategy in anticancer therapy.

Interleukin-1 receptor-dependent and -independent caspase-1 activity in retinal cells mediated by receptor interacting protein 2

Introduction

Inflammation and cell death play an important role in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy. Previously we observed sustained activation of pro-inflammatory caspase-1 in retinas of diabetic animals and patients. In this study, we aimed to look at mechanisms underlying chronic caspase-1 activation in vitro and in vivo.

Methods

Non-diabetic and diabetic wild type and IL-1 receptor (IL-1R1) knockout mice were used for in vivo experiments. Diabetes was induced using STZ (streptozotocin). Human Müller cells were used for in vitro studies. Cells were treated with either 5 mM or 25 mM glucose or interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) in the presence or absence of IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) or siRNA against RIP2 (receptor interacting protein-2) for up to 96 h. Outcome measurements to assess Müller cell functions included measurements of caspase-1 activity using a fluorescence peptide substrate, production of IL-1β by Elisa, and cell death using trypan blue exclusion assays.

Results

Our in vivo results demonstrate that caspase-1 activation progresses from an IL-1R1 independent mechanism at 10 weeks of diabetes to an IL-1R1 dependent mechanism at 20 weeks indicating that feedback through IL-1R1 is crucial for sustained caspase-1 activity in retinas of mice. A similar hyperglycemia-mediated caspase-1/IL-1β/IL-1R1 feedback signaling was detected in vitro in human Müller cells which was prevented by treatment with IL-1ra. Our data also indicate that hyperglycemia induces caspase-1 activation initially but IL-1β sustains caspase-1 activation via caspase-1/IL-1β/IL-1R1 feedback and we identified RIP2 as mediator for both hyperglycemia- and IL-1β-induced caspase-1 activation. Activation of caspase-1/IL-1β/IL-1R1 feedback signaling caused Müller cell death which was prevented by RIP2 knockdown.

Discussion

We conclude that any intervention in caspase-1/IL-1β/IL-1R1 feedback signaling presents novel therapeutic options for the treatment of diabetic retinopathy.

Impact of ciprofloxacin with autophagy on renal tubular injury

BACKGROUNDS

Renal tubular injury caused by oxidative stress and inflammation results in acute kidney injury. Recent research reported that antibiotics may protect renal tubules from progressive deterioration, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Therefore, we investigated the efficacy and mechanism of action of antibiotics against renal tubular injury.

METHODS

We screened ciprofloxacin, ceftizoxime, minocycline, and netilmicin and selected ciprofloxacin to examine further because of its low toxicity towards renal tubular cells. We evaluated the effect of ciprofloxacin on cell survival by analyzing apoptosis and autophagy.

RESULTS

Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated d-UTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay results showed that the ciprofloxacin group had less apoptotic cells than the control group. The ratio of cleaved caspase 3 to caspase 3, the final effector in the apoptosis process, was decreased, but the ratio of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2)-associated X protein (Bax) to Bcl-2 located upstream of caspase 3 was not decreased in the ciprofloxacin group. Therefore, apoptosis inhibition does not occur via Bax/Bcl-2. Conversely, the levels of phosphorylated Bcl-2, and Beclin-1, an autophagy marker, were increased, and that of caspase-3 was decreased in the ciprofloxacin group.

CONCLUSION

This indicates that ciprofloxacin enhances autophagy, increasing the amount of free Beclin-1 via phosphorylated Bcl-2, and inhibits caspase activity. Therefore, ciprofloxacin might protect against renal tubular injury through the activation of autophagy in the setting of acute kidney injury.

Siwu decoction suppress myeloid-derived suppressor cells through tumour cells necroptosis to inhibit hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) acquired resistance to anti-cancer agents due to the presence of immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment (TME) established by the interaction between tumour cells and immune populations. New treatment targeting the interaction is urgently needed and clinically beneficial to patients with HCC. This study aims to explore the anti-tumour effect of a Traditional Chinese Medicine formula Siwu Decoction (SWD) and its potential mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The chemical profile of SWD was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. In vitro and in vivo effects of SWD in regressing HCC were assessed. The role of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in mediating SWD-induced HCC inhibition was determined by adoptive transfer assay. The regulation of SWD-induced interaction between HCC cells and MDSCs was also confirmed both in vitro and in vivo.

RESULTS

SWD dose-dependent inhibited the HCC growth and lung metastasis in an orthotopic growth tumour in mice, without significant toxicity and adverse side effect. SWD induced necroptosis in HCC cells, but did not directly inhibit in vitro culture of MDSCs, instead, SWD-treated HCC cell culture supernatant suppressed MDSCs by inducing its cell apoptosis. The necroptotic response of HCC cells can also suppress the MDSCs population in the TME without reducing circulating MDSCs infiltration into the tumours. Adoptive transfer of MDSCs recovered tumour growth and lung metastasis of HCC in SWD-treated mice. In HCC cells, SWD induced a necroptotic response, and blockade of necroptotic response in HCC cells recovered the MDSCs population in vitro and in vivo, and restored tumour growth and lung metastasis in SWD-treated mice. A combination of SWD improves the anti-HCC efficacy of sorafenib without inducing adverse side effects. Albiflorin, the effective compound of SWD, its anti-HCC manner has been verified to be consistent with that of SWD.

CONCLUSION

Our study observed for the first time that SWD can suppress HCC by regulating MDSCs through necroptosis of tumour cells in the TME. The main effective compound of SWD, albiflorin can be a potential adjuvant therapy in the clinical management of human HCC.

Overview of pyroptosis mechanism and in-depth analysis of cardiomyocyte pyroptosis mediated by NF-κB pathway in heart failure

The pyroptosis of cardiomyocytes has become an essential topic in heart failure research. The abnormal accumulation of these biological factors, including angiotensin II, advanced glycation end products, and various growth factors (such as connective tissue growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, transforming growth factor beta, among others), activates the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway in cardiovascular diseases, ultimately leading to pyroptosis of cardiomyocytes. Therefore, exploring the underlying molecular biological mechanisms is essential for developing novel drugs and therapeutic strategies. However, our current understanding of the precise regulatory mechanism of this complex signaling pathway in cardiomyocyte pyroptosis is still limited. Given this, this study reviews the milestone discoveries in the field of pyroptosis research since 1986, analyzes in detail the similarities, differences, and interactions between pyroptosis and other cell death modes (such as apoptosis, necroptosis, autophagy, and ferroptosis), and explores the deep connection between pyroptosis and heart failure. At the same time, it depicts in detail the complete pathway of the activation, transmission, and eventual cardiomyocyte pyroptosis of the NF-κB signaling pathway in the process of heart failure. In addition, the study also systematically summarizes various therapeutic approaches that can inhibit NF-κB to reduce cardiomyocyte pyroptosis, including drugs, natural compounds, small molecule inhibitors, gene editing, and other cutting-edge technologies, aiming to provide solid scientific support and new research perspectives for the prevention and treatment of heart failure.

Ultrastructural changes in cardiac and skeletal myoblasts following in vitro exposure to monensin, salinomycin, and lasalocid

Carboxylic ionophores are polyether antibiotics used in production animals as feed additives, with a wide range of benefits. However, ionophore toxicosis often occurs as a result of food mixing errors or extra-label use and primarily targets the cardiac and skeletal muscles of livestock. The ultrastructural changes induced by 48 hours of exposure to 0.1 μM monensin, salinomycin, and lasalocid in cardiac (H9c2) and skeletal (L6) myoblasts in vitro were investigated using transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Ionophore exposure resulted in condensed mitochondria, dilated Golgi apparatus, and cytoplasmic vacuolization which appeared as indentations on the myoblast surface. Ultrastructurally, it appears that both apoptotic and necrotic myoblasts were present after exposure to the ionophores. Apoptotic myoblasts contained condensed chromatin and apoptotic bodies budding from their surface. Necrotic myoblasts had disrupted plasma membranes and damaged cytoplasmic organelles. Of the three ionophores, monensin induced the most alterations in myoblasts of both cell lines.

Global research trends and focus on the link between neutrophil extracellular traps and tumor: a bibliometric and visualization analysis from 2006 to 2024

Background

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) have long been consistently considered an innate immune defense against foreign pathogens, but this oversimplified view has decelerated the progression of perceiving NET biology in chronic diseases. It is now increasingly accepted that NETs are not exclusive to anti-infection responses, but are also central players with a double-edged sword role in cancer progression. NETs have gradually emerged as tumor diagnostic, predictive, and prognostic biomarkers, and strenuous endeavors have been devoted to tapping their potential as new therapeutic targets. Correspondingly, the boom in studies on NETs and tumors in recent years has achieved a series of scientific outputs, which opens up a new perspective for perceiving the sophisticated landscapes of the tumor immune microenvironment. However, there is still much room to translate NET-targeted immunotherapies into clinical practice. Therefore, it is necessary to explore the knowledge structure and latent hotspots of the links between NETs and tumors using bibliometric analysis.

Methods

NETs and tumor publications from 2006 to 2024 were extracted from the Web of Science Core Collection. Bibliometric analysis and visualization were conducted using Microsoft Excel, VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and R-bibliometrix.

Results

The analysis included 1,339 publications authored by 7,747 scholars affiliated with 1,926 institutions across 70 countries/regions with relevant articles published in 538 journals. Despite China's maximum number of publications, the United States has continued to dominate the field as a global cooperation center with overwhelming citation counts. Frontiers in Immunology published the most number of publications, whereas Blood was the most cited journal. Wagner, Denisa D. and Kaplan, Mariana J. are concurrently in both the top 10 most prolific authors and cited author lists. Tumor microenvironment and immunotherapy will likely be the focus of future research.

Conclusions

A comprehensive bibliometric analysis was first conducted to map the current landscape and knowledge structure of the link between NETs and tumors in the hope of providing guidance and fresh perspectives for further research in this field. NETs are promising antitumor targets, and perhaps the eventual destination in the realm is to translate NET-targeted immunotherapies into clinical practice.

Significance of Necroptosis in Cartilage Degeneration

Cartilage, a critical tissue for joint function, often degenerates due to osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and trauma. Recent research underscores necroptosis, a regulated form of necrosis, as a key player in cartilage degradation. Unlike apoptosis, necroptosis triggers robust inflammatory responses, exacerbating tissue damage. Key mediators such as receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase-1 (RIPK1), receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase-3(RIPK3), and mixed lineage kinase domain-like (MLKL) are pivotal in this process. Studies reveal necroptosis contributes significantly to OA and RA pathophysiology, where elevated RIPK3 and associated proteins drive cartilage degradation. Targeting necroptotic pathways shows promise; inhibitors like Necrostatin-1 (Nec-1), GSK'872, and Necrosulfonamide (NSA) reduce necroptotic cell death, offering potential therapeutic avenues. Additionally, autophagy's role in mitigating necroptosis-induced damage highlights the need for comprehensive strategies addressing multiple pathways. Despite these insights, further research is essential to fully understand necroptosis' mechanisms and develop effective treatments. This review synthesizes current knowledge on necroptosis in cartilage degeneration, aiming to inform novel therapeutic approaches for OA, RA, and trauma.

Morphological evidence for the potential protective effects of curcumin and Garcinia kola against diabetes in the rat hippocampus

This research investigated the effects of sciatic nerve transection and diabetes on the hippocampus, and the protective effects of Garcinia kola and curcumin. Thirty-five adults male Wistar albino rats were divided into five groups: a control group (Cont), a transected group (Sham group), a transected + diabetes mellitus group (DM), a transected + diabetes mellitus + Garcinia kola group (DM + GK), and a transected + DM + curcumin group (DM + Cur), each containing seven animals. The experimental diabetes model was created with the intraperitoneal injection of a single dose of streptozotocin. No procedure was applied to the Cont group, while sciatic nerve transection was performed on the other groups. Garcinia kola was administered to the rats in DM + GK, and curcumin to those in DM + Cur. Cardiac perfusion was performed at the end of the experimental period. Brain tissues were dissected for stereological, histopathological, and immunohistochemical evaluations. The volume ratios of hippocampal layers to the entire hippocampus volume were compared between the groups. Anti-S100, anti-caspase 3, and anti-SOX 2 antibodies were used for immunohistochemical analysis. No statistically significant difference was observed in the volume ratios of the four hippocampal layers. However, the volume ratio of the stratum lucidum was higher in the Sham, DM, and DM + Cur groups compared to the Cont group. While curcumin exhibited a protective effect on hippocampal tissue following diabetes induction, Garcinia kola had only a weak protective effect. Increased cell density and nuclear deterioration due to diabetes and nerve transection can be partially ameliorated by treatment with Garcinia kola and curcumin.

The TRIM28/miR133a/CD47 axis acts as a potential therapeutic target in pancreatic necrosis by impairing efferocytosis

Efferocytosis, the clearance of apoptotic cells by macrophages, plays a crucial role in inflammatory responses and effectively prevents secondary necrosis. However, the mechanisms underlying efferocytosis in acute pancreatitis (AP) remain unclear. In this study, we demonstrated the presence of efferocytosis in injured human and mouse pancreatic tissues. We also observed significant upregulation of CD47, an efferocytosis-related the "do not eat me" molecule in injured acinar cells. Subsequently, we used CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, anti-adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene modification, and anti-CD47 antibody to investigate the potential therapeutic role of AP. CD47 expression was negatively regulated by upstream miR133a, which is controlled by the transcription factor TRIM28. To further investigate the regulation of efferocytosis and reduction of pancreatic necrosis in AP, we used miR-133a-agomir and pancreas-specific AAV-shTRIM28 to modulate CD47 expression. Our findings confirmed that CD47-mediated efferocytosis is critical for preventing pancreatic necrosis and suggest that targeting the TRIM28-miR133a-CD47 axis is clinically relevant for the treatment of AP.

Recognition of necroptosis: From molecular mechanisms to detection methods

Necroptosis is a crucial modality of programmed cell death characterized by distinct morphological and biochemical hallmarks, including cell membrane rupture, organelle swelling, cytoplasmic and nuclear disintegration, cellular contents leakage, and release of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), accompanied by the inflammatory responses. Studies have shown that necroptosis is involved in the etiology and evolution of a variety of pathologies including organ damage, inflammation disorders, and cancer. Despite its significance, the field of necroptosis research grapples with the challenge of non-standardized detection methodologies. In this review, we introduce the fundamental concepts and molecular mechanisms of necroptosis and critically appraise the principles, merits, and inherent limitations of current detection technologies. This endeavor seeks to establish a methodological framework for necroptosis detection, thereby propelling deeper insights into the research of cell necroptosis.

The romantic history of signaling pathway discovery in cell death: an updated review

Cell death is a fundamental physiological process in all living organisms. Processes such as embryonic development, organ formation, tissue growth, organismal immunity, and drug response are accompanied by cell death. In recent years with the development of electron microscopy as well as biological techniques, especially the discovery of novel death modes such as ferroptosis, cuprotosis, alkaliptosis, oxeiptosis, and disulfidptosis, researchers have been promoted to have a deeper understanding of cell death modes. In this systematic review, we examined the current understanding of modes of cell death, including the recently discovered novel death modes. Our analysis highlights the common and unique pathways of these death modes, as well as their impact on surrounding cells and the organism as a whole. Our aim was to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of research on cell death, with a focus on identifying gaps in our knowledge and opportunities for future investigation. We also presented a new insight for macroscopic intracellular survival patterns, namely that intracellular molecular homeostasis is central to the balance of different cell death modes, and this viewpoint can be well justified by the signaling crosstalk of different death modes. These concepts can facilitate the future research about cell death in clinical diagnosis, drug development, and therapeutic modalities.

Cell life-or-death events in osteoporosis: All roads lead to mitochondrial dynamics

Mitochondria exhibit heterogeneous shapes and networks within and among cell types and tissues, also in normal or osteoporotic bone tissues with complex cell types. This dynamic characteristic is determined by the high plasticity provided by mitochondrial dynamics and is stemmed from responding to the survival and functional requirements of various bone cells in a specific microenvironments. In contrast, mitochondrial dysfunction, induced by dysregulation of mitochondrial dynamics, may act as a trigger of cell death signals, including common apoptosis and other forms of programmed cell death (PCD). These PCD processes consisting of tightly structured cascade gene expression events, can further influence the bone remodeling by facilitating the death of various bone cells. Mitochondrial dynamics, therefore, drive the bone cells to stand at the crossroads of life and death by integrating external signals and altering metabolism, shape, and signal-response properties of mitochondria. This implies that targeting mitochondrial dynamics displays significant potential in treatment of osteoporosis. Considerable effort has been made in osteoporosis to emphasize the parallel roles of mitochondria in regulating energy metabolism, calcium signal transduction, oxidative stress, inflammation, and cell death. However, the emerging field of mitochondrial dynamics-related PCD is not well understood. Herein, to bridge the gap, we outline the latest knowledge on mitochondrial dynamics regulating bone cell life or death during normal bone remodeling and osteoporosis.

Unveiling the hidden dangers: a review of non-apoptotic programmed cell death in anesthetic-induced developmental neurotoxicity

Anesthetic-induced developmental neurotoxicity (AIDN) can arise due to various factors, among which aberrant nerve cell death is a prominent risk factor. Animal studies have reported that repeated or prolonged anesthetic exposure can cause significant neuroapoptosis in the developing brain. Lately, non-apoptotic programmed cell deaths (PCDs), characterized by inflammation and oxidative stress, have gained increasing attention. Substantial evidence suggests that non-apoptotic PCDs are essential for neuronal cell death in AIDN compared to apoptosis. This article examines relevant publications in the PubMed database until April 2024. Only original articles in English that investigated the potential manifestations of non-apoptotic PCD in AIDN were analysed. Specifically, it investigates necroptosis, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and parthanatos, elucidating the signaling mechanisms associated with each form. Furthermore, this study explores the potential relevance of these non-apoptotic PCDs pathways to the pathological mechanisms underlying AIDN, drawing upon their distinctive characteristics. Despite the considerable challenges involved in translating fundamental scientific knowledge into clinical therapeutic interventions, this comprehensive review offers a theoretical foundation for developing innovative preventive and treatment strategies targeting non-apoptotic PCDs in the context of AIDN.

Orchestrating Stress Responses in Multiple Sclerosis: A Role for Astrocytic IFNγ Signaling

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory and neurodegenerative disease that is characterized by the infiltration of peripheral immune cells into the central nervous system (CNS), secretion of inflammatory factors, demyelination, and axonal degeneration. Inflammatory mediators such as cytokines alter cellular function and activate resident CNS cells, including astrocytes. Notably, interferon (IFN)γ is a prominent pleiotropic cytokine involved in MS that contributes to disease pathogenesis. Astrocytes are dynamic cells that respond to changes in the cellular microenvironment and are highly responsive to many cytokines, including IFNγ. Throughout the course of MS, intrinsic cell stress is initiated in response to inflammation, which can impact the pathology. It is known that cell stress is pronounced during MS; however, the specific mechanisms relating IFNγ signaling to cell stress responses in astrocytes are still under investigation. This review will highlight the current literature regarding the impact of IFNγ signaling alone and in combination with other immune mediators on astrocyte synthesis of free oxygen radicals and cell death, and cover what is understood regarding astrocytic mitochondrial dysfunction and endoplasmic reticulum stress.