This book chapter on cell death explores the mechanisms, significance, and
implications of various forms of cellular demise in health and disease. It delves into
classic pathways like apoptosis, which ensures cellular homeostasis, immunity, and
necrosis, traditionally viewed as accidental cell death but now recognized for its role in
inflammation and tissue damage. Emerging forms of cell death, such as autophagy,
pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and NETosis, highlight the complexity of cellular life and death
decisions. The chapter underscores how each form of death is tightly regulated by
specific signaling pathways and proteins, contributing to tissue development, immune
responses, and the progression of diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
A particular focus is placed on the molecular crosstalk between these pathways and
their potential as therapeutic targets. The historical context of cell death
research—from identifying apoptosis to modern-day advancements in targeted
therapies and gene-editing technologies—provides a comprehensive view of how our
understanding of cellular death has evolved.
Keywords: Apoptosis, Autophagy, Cancer, Disorders, Ferroptosis, Immune responses, Necrosis, NETosis, Neurodegenerative, Pyroptosis, Signalling pathways, Therapeutic targets.
