Molecular mechanisms of gasdermin D pore-forming activity

Devant and Kagan review the biochemical and cell biological mechanisms that control gasdermin D pore-forming activity and its diverse downstream immunological effects. The regulated disruption of the plasma membrane, which can promote cell death, cytokine secretion or both is central to organismal health. The protein gasdermin D (GSDMD) is a key player in this process. GSDMD forms membrane pores that can promote cytolysis and the release of interleukin-1 family cytokines into the extracellular space. Recent discoveries have revealed biochemical and cell biological mechanisms that control GSDMD pore-forming activity and its diverse downstream immunological effects. Here, we review these multifaceted regulatory activities, including mechanisms of GSDMD activation by proteolytic cleavage, dynamics of pore assembly, regulation of GSDMD activities by posttranslational modifications, membrane repair and the interplay of GSDMD and mitochondria. We also address recent insights into the evolution of the gasdermin family and their activities in species across the kingdoms of life. In doing so, we hope to condense recent progress and inform future studies in this rapidly moving field in immunology.