Pyroptosis, metabolism, and tumor immune microenvironment

Abstract

In response to a wide range of stimulations, host cells activate pyroptosis, a kind of inflammatory cell death which is provoked by the cytosolic sensing of danger signals and pathogen infection. In manipulating the cleavage of gasdermins (GSDMs), researchers have found that GSDM proteins serve as the real executors and the deterministic players in fate decisions of pyroptotic cells. Whether inflammatory characteristics induced by pyroptosis could cause damage the host or improve immune activity is largely dependent on the context, timing, and response degree. Here, we systematically review current points involved in regulatory mechanisms and the multidimensional roles of pyroptosis in several metabolic diseases and the tumor microenvironment. Targeting pyroptosis may reveal potential therapeutic avenues.

Abstract

1. Gasdermins are executors of pyroptosis, which cause inflammatory cell death, accompanied with various inflammatory mediators.

2. Pyroptosis plays a dual role in tumor microenvironment, including anti‐tumor and pro‐tumor effects.

3. Pyroptosis can be used as a new target to fight against the tumor.