Morphological and biochemical characteristics of pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necrosis [11–14].
Characteristics
Pyroptosis
Necrosis
Apoptosis
Morphological changes
Cell volume increases; organelles become tumid; cell membrane becomes slightly tumid; many vesicular protuberance are formed. Plasma membrane is damaged and becomes tabular. Before plasma rupture, apoptotic body-like protuberances are formed, called pyroptotic bodies. Inflammatory factors are released.
Cells become significantly tumid; plasma membrane shows explosive ruptures.
Intracellular aggregation of cytoplasm and chromatin, DNA damage, and formation of apoptotic bodies; plasma membrane remain intact.
Caspase family
Caspase-1, 4, 5, 11
Caspase-2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Executor of pore formation
Oligomers are formed at the N-terminal of gasdermin-D and translocated to the plasma membrane to form a nonion selective channel.
Oligomerization of mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL) and initiation of plasma membrane translocation; formation of ion-selective channel.
Test method
Positive TUNEL test is observed, but with a lower intensity than during apoptosis. Positive annexin V staining. Observed directly via electron microscopy.
Dual positive staining for annexin V-PI staining; diffusive DNA electrophoresis bands.
Positive TUNEL test; positive annexin V staining. Directly observed via flow cytometry.
