# Targeting pyroptosis in periodontitis: mechanisms and therapeutic strategies

## TL;DR

This paper reviews how targeting pyroptosis, a type of cell death, could lead to new treatments for periodontitis, a common gum disease.

## Contribution

The paper provides a comprehensive overview of pyroptosis mechanisms and novel therapeutic strategies for periodontitis.

## Key findings

- Pyroptosis contributes to the progression of periodontitis through pro-inflammatory pathways.
- Targeting pyroptosis offers potential therapeutic approaches like gene regulation and natural compounds.
- Recent advances highlight challenges and translational opportunities in pyroptosis-based therapies.

## Abstract

Periodontitis is a common chronic inflammatory disease of the oral cavity. It is characterized by progressive destruction of the periodontal supporting tissues and alveolar bone loss, and it remains a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. In recent years, pyroptosis, a pro-inflammatory form of programmed cell death, has attracted increasing attention for its role in the initiation and progression of periodontitis. This review summarizes the molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways of pyroptosis. We highlight pyroptosis-targeted therapeutic strategies for periodontitis, including molecular targeted interventions, gene regulation, ion channel blockers, and natural compounds, among others. We also discuss major challenges and translational prospects in light of recent advances. This review aims to provide direction and guidance for developing novel periodontal therapeutic and regenerative strategies by targeting pyroptosis.