Pyroptosis: A promising therapeutic target for noninfectious diseases

Abstract

Pyroptosis, which is characterized by gasdermin family protein-mediated pore formation, cellular lysis and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, is a form of programmed cell death associated with intracellular pathogens-induced infection. However, emerging evidence indicates that pyroptosis also contributes to sterile inflammation. In this review, we will first illustrate the biological process of pyroptosis. Then, we will focus on the pathogenic effects of pyroptosis on multiple noninfectious disorders. At last, we will characterize several specific pyroptotic inhibitors targeting the pyroptotic signalling pathway. These data demonstrate that pyroptosis plays a prominent role in sterile diseases, thereby providing a promising approach to the treatment of noninfective inflammatory disorders.