Insight to Pyroptosis in Viral Infectious Diseases

Abstract

Background: Pyroptosis is defined as programmed necrosis executed by gasdermin D or E (GSDMD or GSDME), which punches cellular membrane. Morphologically, pyroptosis is characterized by cell swelling and cell membrane rupture, leading to the release of cellular contents that triggers intense inflammatory response. More and more studies have found that pyroptosis may be involved in the pathogenesis of viral infection, which may be a determinant for inflammation observed in most viral diseases. Objective: This paper aims to summarize the roles of pyroptosis in the pathogenesis of viral infectious diseases and to provide potential drug targets for the treatment of viral diseases, which will contribute to medical research and public health. Measures: This paper mainly summarizes pyroptosis occurring in diseases caused by different viruses, including human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis virus, enterovirus, influenza virus and dengue fever virus. Meanwhile, the reported mechanism underlying pyroptosis mediating pathogenesis of these viral diseases will also be described. Conclusion: Current studies have shown that pyroptosis is a double-edged sword in viral infectious diseases. On one hand, pyroptosis leads to pathogenic inflammation of many viral infectious diseases which aggravate tissue damage initiated by viral infection, and blocking proptosis usually relieves the inflammation, which exerts therapeutic effects on viral diseases. On the other hand, moderating pyroptosis can contribute to defense against pathogen infection by releasing immune epitopes and inducing antiviral immune response.