Lytic cell death encompasses several distinct processes resulting in cell membrane rupture and the release of intracellular contents. Several types of lytic cell death play crucial roles in immune responses and disease pathogenesis.
Key Types of Lytic Cell Death
Several forms of regulated cell death (RCD) fall under the umbrella of lytic cell death. These include:
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Pyroptosis: This inflammatory form of lytic cell death is triggered by infection or cellular stress. It's characterized by the activation of caspases (a family of proteases) and the formation of pores in the cell membrane, leading to cell swelling and rupture. Source: Multiple references including, but not limited to, the Nature article on Regulated Cell Death pathways. Pyroptosis is particularly important for clearing invading pathogens. [Source: Multiple references]
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Necroptosis: A programmed form of necrosis, necroptosis is initiated by death receptors or other stress signals. Unlike apoptosis, it doesn't depend on caspase activation. Instead, it involves the formation of a necrosome complex, triggering membrane disruption and cell lysis. Source: Multiple references, including the Nature article on Regulated Cell Death pathways. Necroptosis is implicated in various diseases including inflammatory conditions.
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Ferroptosis: A unique form of regulated necrosis driven by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation. This process differs from other lytic cell deaths by its reliance on iron and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that damage cell membranes, leading to cell death. Source: Multiple references, including the Nature article on Regulated Cell Death pathways.
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PANoptosis: This encompasses a convergence of various cell death pathways, including pyroptosis, necroptosis, and apoptosis. It represents a complex and often synergistic process involved in immune responses and the clearance of pathogens. [Source: Reference mentioning PANoptosis in the context of infectious diseases.]
While apoptosis is a non-lytic form of programmed cell death, it's important to note that in certain contexts, it can exhibit features overlapping with lytic processes. Source: JBC article on Staurosporine inducing lytic cell death
These lytic cell death pathways are crucial for maintaining tissue homeostasis, combating infections, and influencing the progression of various diseases. Their dysregulation can contribute to a wide array of pathological conditions. [Source: Multiple references, particularly the articles on Lytic cell death in Metabolic Liver Disease](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0168827820302105, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32298766/)
