Necroptosis is a regulated form of necrotic cell death. Which molecular platform mediates this process?

• A RIPK3 phosphorylating MLKL, leading to plasma membrane disruption ✓
• B Caspase-8 cleaving caspase-3 in the intrinsic pathway
• C NLRP3 inflammasome activating caspase-1 to cleave gasdermin D
• D APAF-1 apoptosome releasing cytochrome c from mitochondria

Explanation

Necroptosis is a caspase-independent, programmed necrotic cell death pathway. When caspase-8 activity is inhibited (e.g., by viral inhibitors), RIPK1 activates RIPK3, which phosphorylates MLKL (mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein). Phospho-MLKL oligomerizes and inserts into the plasma membrane, forming pores that cause cell swelling and lysis — releasing DAMPs and triggering inflammation. NLRP3 → gasdermin D cleavage describes pyroptosis, another regulated necrosis pathway. The apoptosome describes intrinsic apoptosis.

Reference: Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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