Detailed Guideline on Pyroptosis Research

It is evident that the gasdermin family is central to pyroptosis. This is because the gasdermin family members are the executioners of pyroptosis, and their pore-forming function is a necessary condition for pyroptosis to occur. This family generally includes a cytotoxic N-terminal domain and a C-terminal inhibitory domain. After cleavage, the N-terminal domain is released and can assemble into pores in the membrane. Gasdermin pores disrupt the integrity of the cell membrane, leading to inflammatory cell death, with cell contents, including inflammatory cytokines, being released into the extracellular space.

Although the phenomenon of cell death had been known for centuries, even briefly described in the 19th century, the explosion of research and technology in the latter half of the 20th century led to greater and more nuanced discoveries that have provided insights into many physiological processes including tissue development, maintenance, metabolism, and disease states including cancer. The many accomplishments in programmed cell death research have improved our understanding and development of targeted therapeutics, and some of these milestones were recognized by Nobel Prizes for apoptosis and autophagy. As scientists continue to elucidate new cell death pathways and their interplay with other pathways, let's take a look at what we know so far and what new findings have come out.

Every August, we observe National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM), an event that educates and encourages everyone to keep up with their vaccinations. While healthcare providers continue to play important roles in education and supporting public health, the rest of us can read up on what vaccines are needed, vaccination schedules, and provide outreach to ensure that we and our neighbors remain safe and healthy from preventable diseases.