A researcher discovers that a novel drug induces gasdermin D (GSDMD) pore formation in macrophages after inflammasome activation, releasing IL-1beta and IL-18 along with cellular contents. This form of cell death is best classified as:
- A Pyroptosis ✓
- B Necroptosis
- C Ferroptosis
- D Anoikis
Correct answer: A. Pyroptosis
Explanation
Pyroptosis is a form of regulated inflammatory cell death specifically driven by inflammasome activation and caspase-1 (or caspase-4/5 in humans) cleavage of gasdermin D. The N-terminal domain of GSDMD oligomerizes in the plasma membrane, forming large pores (10–20 nm) that allow release of mature IL-1beta and IL-18, electrolyte imbalance, osmotic swelling, and eventual cell membrane rupture. This is distinct from necroptosis (RIPK3/MLKL pathway), ferroptosis (iron-dependent lipid peroxidation), and anoikis (apoptosis from loss of matrix attachment).
Reference: Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.