Pyroptosis

**Semantic type:** Phenomenon or Process

**Definition:** An inflammatory form of programmed cell death characterized by caspase-dependent formation of plasma-membrane pores, which leads to pathological changes in osmotic potential that ultimately result in cellular lysis and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. It occurs most frequently following infection with intracellular pathogens, but also has a role in tumor suppression and the initiation of anti-tumor immune responses, as well as in autoimmune and cardiovascular diseases.