About this Research Topic
Cell death can occur through apoptosis (programmed cell death) or necrosis (unprogrammed cell death), and both forms of cell death may initiate autoimmune responses. When cell death occurs, cellular components and molecules are released into the surrounding tissue, capturing the attention of the immune system. In autoimmune diseases, the immune system may mistakenly recognize these released molecules and cellular components as foreign threats, subsequently activating an autoimmune response.
Furthermore, cell death can also lead to the release of autoantigens, which are the targets of the immune system's attack in autoimmune diseases. The release of these autoantigens can stimulate autoimmune reactions, exacerbating inflammation and tissue damage. Therefore, the interaction between cell death and autoimmune diseases has become a focal point of research. Researchers are actively exploring the crosstalk between the cell death process and the immune system to better understand this relationship and to develop new therapeutic strategies. These studies hold the potential to offer novel insights and approaches for future treatments of autoimmune diseases.
The central issue in the realm of cell death and autoimmune diseases is unraveling the complex interplay between these processes, which is pivotal for comprehending the initiation and progression of autoimmune disorders. Recent strides in this field have illuminated critical facets of this challenge:
Cell Death Mechanisms: Recent research has made substantial headway in delineating various modes of cell death, such as apoptosis, necroptosis, and pyroptosis. Understanding how these mechanisms influence the immune response is fundamental to grasping their role in autoimmune diseases.
Autoantigen Release: Recent insights have shed light on the release of autoantigens during cell death, which act as triggers for the immune system's attack on self-tissues. This knowledge helps identify the specific autoantigens involved in different autoimmune conditions.
Inflammatory Signaling: Substantial progress has been made in deciphering the signaling pathways and molecules released during cell death, which can activate pro-inflammatory responses. Recent studies highlight how these pathways contribute to the chronic inflammation characteristic of autoimmune diseases.
Therapeutic Approaches: Advances in targeted therapies that modulate cell death processes or suppress immune responses offer new hope for individuals with autoimmune diseases. These therapies aim to control the autoimmune reactions induced by cell death and reduce tissue damage.
To gain a deeper understanding of this issue, ongoing research should further explore the intricate connections between cell death and autoimmune diseases, identify specific factors driving autoimmunity, and develop innovative therapeutic strategies tailored to individual autoimmune conditions. Collaboration among immunologists, cell biologists, and clinicians is pivotal in advancing our comprehension of the links between cell death and autoimmune diseases and translating this knowledge into improved treatments and potential cures.
This Research Topic aims to explore the intricate interplay between autoimmune diseases and cell death, with a focus on advancing our understanding of the underlying mechanisms, novel insights, and potential therapeutic avenues. We welcome contributions addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
Mechanisms of Cell Death: Investigations into different modes of cell death and their relevance to autoimmune disorders.
Autoantigen Release: Studies elucidating the release of autoantigens during cell death and their role in triggering autoimmune responses.
Immunomodulation: Research on therapeutic strategies aimed at modulating cell death processes to mitigate autoimmune reactions.
Inflammatory Signaling: Exploring the signaling pathways and molecules involved in cell death and their contribution to autoimmune disease-related inflammation.
Manuscript Types: We invite contributions of all types, including but not limited to Original Research, Reviews, Mini-Reviews, Perspectives, Case Reports, and Opinion articles. Submissions should contribute to advancing our knowledge in this critical field and may encompass experimental, clinical, or theoretical aspects.
Keywords: Rheumatoid arthritis, Lupus, Scleroderma, Cell Death
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.