Which form of programmed cell death is characterized by cell membrane rupture, release of intracellular contents triggering inflammation, and gasdermin D pore formation — differing fundamentally from classical caspase-3-mediated apoptosis?
- A Anoikis
- B Pyroptosis ✓
- C Necroptosis
- D Entosis
Correct answer: B. Pyroptosis
Explanation
Pyroptosis is a form of programmed, pro-inflammatory cell death mediated by inflammasome activation (typically NLRP3 or AIM2), which cleaves and activates caspase-1 or caspase-4/5/11. Active caspase-1 cleaves gasdermin D, whose N-terminal fragment inserts into the plasma membrane to form large pores, causing cell swelling, membrane rupture, and release of IL-1β and IL-18. Necroptosis is RIPK3/MLKL-mediated programmed necrosis, while anoikis is apoptosis triggered by loss of cell-matrix contact.
Reference: Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.