MINI REVIEW article

Front. Immunol., 22 August 2025

Sec. Inflammation

Volume 16 - 2025 | https://doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2025.1649790

Microglial pyroptosis as a therapeutic target after traumatic spinal cord injury: current progress and future directions

  • LS

    Lei Shi 1,2,3†

  • QQ

    Qiheng Qian 2†

  • JX

    Jiding Xie 3†

  • TY

    Taoshuo Yang 4

  • XZ

    Xinyu Zhao 5

  • XM

    Xiangqi Meng 2*

  • JD

    Jingang Dai 3*

  • QJ

    Qiguan Jin 1*

  • 1. College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China

  • 2. Suzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China

  • 3. Experimental Research Center, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China

  • 4. College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom

  • 5. Xuzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China

Abstract

Traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) is a devastating neurological condition with limited therapeutic options and a high likelihood of permanent disability. Among the multifaceted secondary injury mechanisms triggered by TSCI, pyroptosis—an inflammatory form of programmed cell death—has emerged as a key pathological process. In particular, microglial pyroptosis plays a pivotal role in exacerbating neuroinflammation and disrupting tissue homeostasis, thereby amplifying the secondary injury cascade. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the molecular pathways mediating microglial pyroptosis, including canonical (NLRP3–caspase-1–GSDMD), non-canonical (caspase-11–GSDMD), and atypical (caspase-3/8–GSDME/GSDMC) signaling. We also examine recent therapeutic strategies aimed at suppressing microglial pyroptosis—such as extracellular vesicle-based delivery systems, small-molecule compounds, and gene-targeted approaches—and assess their potential to enhance neurological and motor recovery following SCI. By elucidating both the pathological significance and therapeutic promise of microglial pyroptosis, this review offers novel perspectives on its translational potential as a target for spinal cord injury intervention.

1 Introduction

Traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) refers to denotes an abrupt, often irreversible disruption of spinal parenchyma precipitated by high-energy mechanical forces—such as falls, motor-vehicle collisions and sports trauma—which instantaneously destroy neurons, glia and the microvasculature, producing profound sensorimotor deficits and imposing substantial socioeconomic burdens (1, 2).

Pathologically, TSCI progresses through two distinct phases: primary injury and secondary injury (3). The primary injury arises directly from mechanical forces (e.g., compression, traction, laceration) that cause irreversible structural damage to spinal cord tissue (4). In contrast, secondary injury initiates rapidly after the primary insult and involves a complex, sustained cascade of pathophysiological events, including neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, excitotoxicity, apoptosis, pyroptosis, edema, and disruption of the blood-spinal cord barrier (BSCB). The progression of secondary injury can last from hours to weeks or longer, typically divided into acute (hours to 3 days), subacute (3 days to 2 weeks), and chronic (weeks to months) phases (5). Each phase may exacerbate the initial damage and impair long-term functional recovery. Notably, compared to the irreversible nature of primary structural damage, secondary injury exhibits greater plasticity and therapeutic potential, and timely interventions targeting secondary injury may reduce long-term neurological deficits.

Pyroptosis is a pro-inflammatory form of programmed cell death distinct from classical apoptosis (6). Its hallmark molecular features include the assembly of inflammasomes and activation of caspase-1, which cleaves substrates such as Gasdermin D (GSDMD) (7). The N-terminal fragment of GSDMD (GSDMD-NT) forms pores in the cell membrane, leading to rapid cell lysis and the release of cellular contents (8). Pyroptosis triggers the maturation and secretion of inflammatory mediators (e.g., IL-1β, IL-18), which induce intense local inflammation and exacerbate damage to adjacent cells.

Microglia, the resident immune cells of the central nervous system (CNS), play critical roles in immune surveillance, debris clearance, and synaptic pruning (9). Studies show that microglia are among the first cells to respond following spinal cord injury, undergoing morphological changes, migration, and phenotypic transformation to participate in inflammatory reactions at the injury site (10). Activated microglia exhibit a “double-edged sword” effect: they can promote repair by clearing necrotic debris and releasing neurotrophic factors, but may also aggravate the local inflammatory milieu through the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-1β (11).

In the context of spinal cord injury, growing evidence highlights microglial pyroptosis as a pivotal event in secondary injury (12). As key contributors to post-injury inflammation, elevated pyroptosis in microglia is thought to worsen the neuroinflammatory environment (13). Numerous studies demonstrate significant upregulation of pyroptosis-related molecules (e.g., NLRP3 inflammasome components, cleaved GSDMD) in microglia after TSCI. Pyroptotic microglial death may also impair their beneficial roles in debris clearance and regenerative support. Thus, microglial pyroptosis is recognized as a critical link in the secondary injury cascade, profoundly impacting motor and neurological functional recovery.

2 Spinal cord injury and microglia

2.1 Spinal cord injury and secondary injury

During the acute phase of SCI, spinal cord ischemia, vasogenic edema and glutamate-mediated excitotoxicity inflict the primary insult, whereas neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, overactive nitric-oxide-synthase (NOS), excessive apoptosis/necrosis, axonal degeneration and glial-scar formation synergistically hinder axonal remyelination and remodeling, ultimately dictating neurological prognosis (14). Minutes after trauma, an explosive inflammatory cascade releases damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) that swiftly recruit and activate resident glia and peripheral immune cells within the CNS (15). Pro-inflammatory cytokines—IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α—rise steeply in tissue and cerebrospinal fluid within hours. Activated microglia and infiltrating macrophages are detectable in the parenchyma as early as 1 h, peak at 5–10 days and can persist for months (16). The diverse mediators released by these inflammatory cells collectively shape the secondary injury microenvironment, exacerbating pathological processes such as ischemia, edema, oxidative free radical accumulation, apoptosis, and pyroptosis (17). Timely curtailment of this cascade is therefore paramount for salvaging residual neural tissue and preserving function.

2.2 Activation of microglia and their associated roles in spinal cord injury

Microglia—the brain’s resident “sentinels” and “scavengers”—continually survey the parenchyma under homeostatic conditions (18). After SCI they are rapidly activated, becoming one of the earliest cellular responders (19). Within minutes-to-hours they enlarge, proliferate and migrate towards the lesion core. Activated microglia appear as early as 1 h, peak at 5–10 days and remain for weeks-to-months (20).

The activation state of microglia exhibits a dual nature: On one hand, excessive activation of microglia leads to the release of large amounts of pro-inflammatory mediators, exacerbating tissue damage (21). On the other hand, moderate activation facilitates debris clearance and secretion of neurotrophic factors, promoting tissue repair. Based on their activation states and functions, microglia are typically categorized into two phenotypes: the classically activated M1 phenotype and the alternatively activated M2 phenotype (22).

2.2.1 Activation states of microglia

M1 microglia predominate during the acute phase of SCI and exhibit pro-inflammatory and neurotoxic effects (23). They secrete high levels of inflammatory mediators, such as IL-6, IL-12, and IFN-γ (24, 25), which trigger inflammatory cascades in neighboring cells, leading to severe neuronal and glial cell death and demyelination. M1 microglia also generate excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) and proteases, causing further tissue damage (26).

In contrast, M2 microglia exert anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective roles by releasing anti-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-10, IL-4, TGF-β) and growth factors (27–29). These mediators suppress inflammation and promote tissue repair and axonal regeneration. However, recent studies emphasize that the M1/M2 classification represents a spectrum rather than a strict dichotomy (30). However, recent studies suggest that microglial classification represents a continuum rather than two extreme, polarized phenotypes. With the advancement of technologies such as single-cell sequencing and spatial transcriptomics, microglia are now classified into multiple functional subtypes based on molecular characteristics, each with distinct nomenclature (31).

Homeostatic microglia refer to the resident microglia that maintain CNS homeostasis under physiological conditions—traditionally described as the “resting” state. Their marker genes include P2RY12, TMEM119, CX3CR1, SIGLEC-H, and HEXB (30).

Interferon-responsive microglia exhibit gene signatures induced by type I interferon stimulation, typically observed in acute inflammation or viral infection. However, studies have shown that this phenotype also exists in healthy mice, with notable sex-specific differences—male mice predominantly exhibit the interferon-responsive profile (high expression of the male-specific gene Eif2s3y), whereas females retain a homeostatic phenotype (high expression of the female X-linked gene Xist) (32).

Disease-associated microglia (DAM) were first identified in neurodegenerative conditions, characterized by the upregulation of genes involved in phagocytosis and lipid metabolism, such as APOE, TREM2, CD11c/ITGAX, and CLEC7A, accompanied by downregulation of homeostatic genes. This subtype is associated with lipid dysregulation and impaired clearance function and is mainly observed in neurodegeneration, demyelinating diseases, and late-stage acute injuries.

Proliferative-region-associated microglia (PAMG) are detected in neurogenic niches during development and participate in clearing apoptotic cells and promoting neurogenesis. Wang et al. found that PAMGs appear predominantly in the early acute phase of SCI (within ~3 days), characterized by genes involved in cell proliferation and stress response. These cells can be further divided into two subclusters: PAMG1, which highly expresses cell cycle regulatory genes (e.g., Mcm3, Cdk1) to promote proliferation; and PAMG2, which upregulates genes related to oxidative stress and inflammation (e.g., Tlr2, Cd5l, Ifi204), suggesting a potential role in counteracting injury-induced oxidative environments.

Meanwhile, injury-associated microglia (IaMG) are prominently enriched during the subacute phase post-injury. These are mainly divided into IaMG1 and IaMG2, both expressing inflammation-related genes such as Stat1, Cst7, and Cybb. Notably, the IaMG2 subset also upregulates genes associated with angiogenesis and axon regeneration (e.g., Nrp2, Fn1, Cxcr4, Rab7b), indicating its potential role in tissue repair and axonal regrowth. This highlights that post-injury microglial subtypes are not functionally homogeneous (30).

In addition, other subtypes have been proposed based on disease models, such as glioma-associated microglia (GAM), post-stroke microglia, and Parkinson’s disease-associated microglia. Some studies have noted overlapping features and lineage connections among different subtypes (33), and evidence suggests that microglia in varying activation states can migrate between regions as disease progresses (33, 34). These findings complicate nomenclature and experimental interpretation but underscore the remarkable plasticity of microglia and their ability to transition across diverse states depending on temporal and microenvironmental cues. Understanding these subpopulations is essential for elucidating the mechanisms by which microglia contribute to injury repair.

2.2.2 Microglial efferocytosis after spinal cord injury

Microglial engulfment of dying cells and myelin debris is indispensable for establishing a pro-regenerative milieu in the CNS. This engulfment—termed efferocytosis—progresses through three coordinated steps: “find-me,” “eat-me,” and “digest” signals that sequentially attract, engage, and remove dying cells (35). Briefly, apoptotic cells emit chemo-attractants that bind dedicated receptors on phagocytes, triggering engulfment; the resulting phagosome then fuses with lysosomes, where the cargo is enzymatically degraded (36).

Efferocytosis therefore represents a pivotal checkpoint in inflammation resolution. By-products generated during digestion actively re-programme immune cells, steering them toward pro-resolving phenotypes and restoring tissue homeostasis (35). After brain injury, efferocytosis in the CNS is often suppressed. Notably, EphA4 overexpression in microglia inhibits the P-ERK/P-Stat6/MERTK signaling axis (37). By contrast, microglia enriched for MERTK display heightened efferocytosis, foster oligodendrocyte regeneration, and improve functional outcome in demyelinating models (38). Likewise, Gas6 limits pro-inflammatory microglial activation and curtails microglia–astrocyte crosstalk, thereby attenuating post-SCI inflammation and glial-scar formation (39).

Multiple studies have shown that enhancing microglial phagocytic capacity improves outcomes in ischemic stroke, subarachnoid hemorrhage, and related conditions, likely through mechanisms involving the reduction of neuronal injury and modulation of CNS inflammation (40, 41). Some researchers have proposed that microglial phagocytic capacity is closely tied to their activation state. During efferocytosis, microglia may also adopt a pro-resolving phenotype, secreting anti-inflammatory cytokines such as TGF-β and IL-10 to suppress secondary inflammation and maintain tissue homeostasis (42, 43). Additionally, some studies have employed a strategy combining neutrophil membrane-derived vesicles and a “Trojan Horse” system to promote nerve regeneration and modulate inflammation after SCI through efferocytosis. This effect is mediated by the reprogramming of immune cells and regulation of the immune cascade (44). Collectively, these data underscore efferocytosis as a central driver of immune resolution and tissue repair in SCI. Therapeutic reinforcement of microglial efferocytosis thus offers a compelling avenue for improving neurological outcome.

3 Pyroptosis pathways following spinal cord injury

3.1 Classical caspase-1-dependent pathway

In the canonical pathway, pyroptosis is initiated by multi-protein inflammasomes—most notably NLRP3—that sense danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) liberated after primary mechanical trauma (45). A prototypical signal is extracellular ATP, which binds microglial P2X7 receptors, drives K+ efflux, and thereby activates the NLRP3 inflammasome in SCI (46). High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), a nuclear protein under physiological conditions, is upregulated in damaged neurons and microglia following SCI and can bind to receptors such as TLR2/4, thereby promoting M1-type polarization of microglia and increasing the release of pro-inflammatory mediators (47). Cellular stress increases mitochondrial permeability; oxidized mtDNA escapes into the cytosol and directly couples to NLRP3, driving inflammasome assembly (48). In addition, SCI-induced cell damage can release other DAMPs such as heat shock proteins (e.g., HSP70, HSP90), S100 proteins, and related molecules. These too are recognized by pattern recognition receptors and contribute to sterile inflammation (49, 50)- (51). Collectively, ATP, HMGB1, and mtDNA represent well-characterized DAMPs in the context of SCI, corresponding to the release of metabolic, nuclear, and genetic materials, respectively. These molecules engage distinct receptors and pathways to drive NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated neuroinflammation.

NLRP3 inflammasome activation proceeds in two steps: the priming/transcriptional signal and the activating signal. The priming/transcriptional signal is initiated by DAMPs or other stimuli that activate transcriptional pathways such as NF-κB, resulting in upregulated transcription and translation of NLRP3 and its downstream pro-inflammatory cytokine precursors, including pro-IL-1β and pro-IL-18 (52). This step elevates the cellular abundance of inflammasome components and sensitizes the NLRP3 complex to activation, involving adapter proteins such as Myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88), Interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 1 (IRAK-1), TIR-domain-containing adaptor-inducing interferon-β (TRIF), and Fas-associated protein with death domain (FADD) (53, 54). The activating signal is closely tied to the aforementioned DAMPs and directly induces NLRP3 inflammasome assembly and activation of effector molecules such as caspase-1 (55). This second signal is often associated with ion fluxes, particularly potassium efflux and calcium influx, which are considered potential upstream events in NLRP3 activation (53, 56). In acute-to-subacute SCI, NLRP3–caspase-1 signaling surges in microglia and constitutes a linchpin of secondary degeneration (57). Excessive pyroptosis depletes protective microglia and floods the parenchyma with pro-inflammatory mediators, jeopardizing neuronal survival. Pharmacological or genetic inhibition of NLRP3 therefore constitutes a promising strategy to blunt neuroinflammation and foster recovery (58).

3.2 Non-canonical pyroptosis pathway mediated by Caspase-4/5/11

In the non-canonical route, human caspase-4/-5 (murine caspase-11) are directly engaged by cytosolic lipopolysaccharide (LPS), bypassing canonical inflammasome sensors (59). LPS docking to their CARD domains triggers rapid oligomerization and auto-activation of these caspases. The activated caspases cleave the linker region of Gasdermin D (GSDMD), releasing the N-terminal fragment (GSDMD-NT). This fragment inserts into the cell membrane, forming pores that trigger pyroptotic cell lysis (60).

While Caspase-4/5/11 do not directly process pro-IL-1β or pro-IL-18, the membrane pores formed by GSDMD-NT cause potassium ion efflux and other cellular disturbances (60, 61). These changes indirectly activate the NLRP3 inflammasome, leading to Caspase-1-dependent maturation and release of IL-1β and IL-18. Consequently, the non-canonical pathway often synergizes with the classical pathway, amplifying the inflammatory cascade (62). Caspase-11 can also cleave the large-pore channel pannexin-1, leading to massive ATP release from the cell. The extracellular ATP then activates the P2X7 receptor, which further triggers potassium efflux, thereby promoting the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome (63). Mice lacking P2X7 or pannexin-1 exhibit greater resistance to LPS, indicating that this signaling axis is essential for caspase-11-dependent non-canonical pyroptosis. Such cross-talk intensifies neuroinflammation after SCI, underscoring the intricate tapestry of pyroptotic signaling in secondary pathology.

3.3 Atypical pyroptosis mediated by caspase-3/8

Mounting evidence indicates that the executioner caspases-3 and caspases-8, historically viewed as apoptotic proteases, can instigate pyroptosis via unconventional cleavage of specific gasdermins, thereby constituting inflammasome-independent “atypical” pathways (64).

Caspase-3 is recognized as the protease executing apoptosis (65). However, in cells with high GSDME expression, caspase-3 can cleave GSDME, releasing its N-terminal pore-forming domain. This shifts apoptosis toward pyroptosis-like lytic cell death (66). Research indicates that GSDME acts as a “molecular switch,” triggering membrane pore formation and inflammatory mediator release in caspase-3-activated cells (67). Post-SCI, elevated GSDME levels are observed, and its suppression reverses neuroinflammatory exacerbation (68). Microglia express GSDME under pathological conditions, undergoing caspase-3-dependent GSDME cleavage and pyroptotic death upon injury (69).

Caspase-8, a key enzyme in the extrinsic apoptosis pathway, has recently been shown to cleave Gasdermin C (GSDMC) under specific inflammatory conditions (e.g., high TNF-α and IFN-γ levels), inducing pyroptosis in cancer cells (70). Metabolite α-ketoglutarate (α-KG)-induced pyroptosis via death receptor DR6 and caspase-8-mediated GSDMC cleavage has also been reported, dependent on ROS elevation and acidic microenvironments (71). Additionally, caspase-8 can inefficiently cleave GSDMD or promote inflammasome activation, further linking it to pyroptosis (72). Muendlein et al (73) recently proposed the concept of “efferoptosis,” referring to a form of macrophage death termed “macrophage efferoptosis” induced by TNF during efferocytosis. In this process, TNF-activated macrophages undergo TRIF/caspase-8/GSDMD-dependent cell death after engulfing neutrophils. Notably, IL-1β maturation in this context does not rely on the NLRP3 inflammasome but instead occurs via direct cleavage by caspase-8. This suggests that a similar pathway may also be involved in microglial pyroptosis following SCI.

3.4 ROS-mediated pyroptosis

Excess reactive-oxygen species (ROS) generated after SCI constitute a pivotal trigger of inflammasome activation and ensuing pyroptosis. ROS potentiate NLRP3 oligomerization by inducing thiol oxidation, ionic flux and mitochondrial dysfunction (74, 75). Studies show that pathological events post-SCI, such as hemorrhage, hypoxia, and iron ion release, amplify ROS production (76). Excessive ROS triggers NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis. Additionally, ROS indirectly activate the inflammasome by disrupting lysosomal membranes (causing lysosomal enzyme leakage) and damaging mitochondria (releasing mitochondrial DNA and other DAMPs) (77). In microglia, uncontrolled ROS levels persistently stimulate caspase-1/GSDMD-dependent pyroptosis, releasing inflammatory mediators that exacerbate neurological damage.

Targeting oxidative stress via antioxidant therapies has emerged as a promising strategy to suppress pyroptosis and mitigate inflammation (78). For instance, Cynarin inhibits microglial pyroptosis in SCI models by enhancing Nrf2 antioxidant signaling, reducing ROS levels, and suppressing NLRP3 inflammasome assembly (79). This mechanism highlights the therapeutic potential of antioxidants in modulating pyroptosis and improving outcomes in SCI.

Mitochondrial Damage and Pyroptosis

3.5 Mitochondrial damage-mediated pyroptosis

As metabolic powerhouses, mitochondria are intimately linked to cell-death pathways; injury-induced dysfunction prompts excess ROS production and releases mtDNA, oxidized cardiolipin, and other DAMPs into the cytosol (80–82). These molecules act as DAMPs to activate inflammasomes such as NLRP3 or AIM2, triggering caspase-1-mediated pyroptosis (83, 84). Targeting this mechanism, enhancing mitophagy (selective autophagy of mitochondria) to clear damaged mitochondria has emerged as an effective strategy to suppress pyroptosis. For instance, the natural compound Betulinic acid promotes autophagy and mitophagy, clearing dysfunctional mitochondria and reducing ROS levels, thereby significantly inhibiting microglial pyroptosis during SCI (85). Similarly, Urolithin A alleviates microglial pyroptosis and inflammation by enhancing mitophagy in injured tissues (86). These findings underscore the importance of maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis to inhibit pyroptosis and mitigate secondary injury in SCI (Figure 1).

Figure 1

4 Targeted modulation of microglial pyroptosis to promote neurological and motor recovery post-SCI

Currently, there are no clinically approved pyroptosis-targeted interventions for SCI. However, preclinical studies have demonstrated the critical importance of targeting microglial pyroptosis to improve neurological and motor functional recovery following SCI. Strategies such as cell transplantation, extracellular vesicles derived from other cell sources, synthetic drugs, natural compounds, and genetic modulation of key pyroptosis regulators have shown significant therapeutic potential (Shown Table 1 for details).

Table 1

TreatmentsKey factorExperimental modelsMethods of
administration		Mechanisms of actionTherapeutic effectsReference
ApocyninAdvanced oxidation protein products(AOPPs)C5 hemi-contusionIntraperitoneal injectionNox4-ROS-NLRP3-GSDMDThe NADPH oxidase inhibitor apocynin suppresses AOPP-induced microglial pyroptosis via the ROS-dependent MAPK-NF-κB signaling pathway and NLRP3-GSDMD pathway following spinal cord injury (SCI), thereby improving SCI prognosis.(101)
ExosomesmiR-709T8 spinal cord contusionIntrathecal injectionNKAPTreg cells suppress microglia pyroptosis by secreting the exosome miR-709, which inhibits NKAP expression. Injection of Treg cells or Treg cell-derived exosomes inhibited microglia pyroptosis activation, resulting in improved functional recovery after spinal cord injury.(92)
SC79CD73(NT5E)Spinal crush injury at the T8‐T9Intraperitoneal injectionPI3K/AKT/Foxo1CD73 alleviates GSDMD‐mediated pyroptosis through inhibiting PI3K/AKT/Foxo1 signaling. CD73 promotes an increase in the concentration of extracellular adenosine after injury, increases PI3K/AKT activation through the A2B adenosine receptor, thereby blunting NLRP3 inflammasome activation and reducing GSDMD transcription. The accumulation of HIF‐1α after spinal cord injury facilitates the upregulation of CD73, while the overexpressed CD73 promotes the further aggregation of HIF‐1α through adenosine‐A2BAR‐p38 cascade, forming a positive feedback regulation.(111)
Lycium barbarum glycopeptidemodulating docosahexaenoic acidLeft-sided spinal cord transection at the T12 vertebral levelOrally(nasogastric tube)MAPK-NF-κBLbGp stimulates microglia to produce DHA by regulating the key enzymes FADS1 and FADS2 in microglia, and thus, DHA can improve neuro inflammation by inhibiting the MAPK/NF-kB and pyroptosis pathways group(102)
pLVX‐dead‐box helicase 3 X‐linkedTLR4Spinal crush injury at the T8‐T9Intrathecal injectionJAK2/STAT1/DDX3X/NLRP3TLR4 promotes microglial pyroptosis by activating the STAT1/DDX3X/NLRP3 signalling axis after SCI in vivo and in vitro. BGN is an important molecule that mediates the pro‐pyroptotic role of TLR4.(112)
HSPA1A-overexpressing lentivirusHeat shock protein family A member 1A (HSPA1A)
DUSP1		T8 spinal cord contusionIntrathecal injectionMAPKHSPA1A was exerted through upregulation of DUSP1 to further inhibit the MAPK pathway(113)
ExosomesmiR-21a-5pT8 spinal cord contusionIntrathecal injectionmiR-21a-5p/PELI1BMSC-derived exosomes enhanced autophagy and suppression of pyroptosis in macrophage/microglia, mediated by the miR-21a-5p/PELI1 axis(93)
LupenoneNLRP3T8 spinal cord contusionIntraperitoneal injectionNF-κBLupenone improves the local inflammatory microenvironment by inhibiting neuroinflammation via suppression of the NF-κB signaling pathway. The results indicated that Lup alleviates neuroinflammation by modulating activation of inflammasome and subsequent microglial polarization and pyroptosis.(103)
Pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate(bmal1 knockout )MMP9Spinal crush injury at the T8‐T9(bmal1 KO)Slowly microinjected to a depth of ~1 mm at the site of spinal cord injuryNF-κB /MMP9Bmal1 regulates the NF-κB /MMP9 pathway to reduce microglial pyroptosis and thereby reduce secondary spinal cord injury(114)
Exosomeslet-7b-5pT8~T9 spinal cord contusionIntrathecal injectionLRIG3IPSC-NSCs and their exosomes effectively suppress pyroptosis and neuroinflammation in microglial/macrophages subjected to SCI and LPS stimulation. These interventions alleviate the formation of glial scars, maintain the integrity of myelin, and facilitate the growth of axons, ultimately restoring functional abilities in SCI mice.(94)
shRNA-FANCC adeno-associated virusFanconi Anemia Group C complementation group geneT10 spinal cord contusionIntrathecal injectionp38/NLRP3Increased expression of FANCC in SCI mice and LPS-stimulated microglia markedly inhibited pyroptosis and neuroinflammation via blocking the p38/NLRP3 pathway(115)
ResveratrolmiR-124-3p/DAPK1(Death‐associated protein kinase 1)Spinal Cord Ischemia-Reperfusion InjuryIntraperitoneal injectionNLRP3/Caspase-1/GSDMDResveratrol elevates miR-124-3p levels targeting DAPK1, modulates the NLRP3/Caspase-1/GSDMD pathway, suppresses pyroptosis, and mitigates SCI.(104)
lncRNA-F630028O10RikTLR4Spinal crush injury at the T8‐T9Intrathecal injectionPI3K/AKTTLR4 was activated following SCI and promoted the expression of lncRNA-F630028O10Rik. This lncRNA functioned as a ceRNA for miR-1231-5p/Col1a1 axis and enhanced microglial pyroptosis after SCI by activating the PI3K/AKT pathway.(95)
CerS5 siRNACeramide synthase 5T10 spinal cord contusionIntrathecal injectionCerS5/NLRP3Inhibiting microglial CerS5 expression after SCI effectively mitigates neuroinflammation by suppressing microglial pyroptosis, thereby exerting neuroprotective effects. This process involves C16 ceramide, a downstream product of CerS5 metabolic pathway, which activates the NLRP3 signaling pathway in a manner dependent on Pla2g7 and NFκB.(116)
DPSC-CMInterleukin-1βT10 spinal cord contusionIntraperitoneal injectionNLRP3/caspase-1/IL-1βHuman dental pulp stem cells can reduce microglial pyroptosis by inhibiting the NLRP3/caspase-1/interleukin-1β pathway, thereby promoting the recovery of neurological function after spinal cord injury.(96)
circ0000381-siRNAmiR-423-3pT10 spinal cord contusion-circ0000381/miR-423-3p/NLRP3Following an earlier increase of NLRP3 and GSDMD, circ0000381 upregulation may be a compensatory change to limit microglial/macrophage pyroptosis after SCI. Moreover, circ0000381 can bind to miR-423-3p and act as an endogenous sponge to inhibit miR-423-3p activity, thus attenuating spinal microglial/macrophage pyroptosis.(97)
ExomosesmiRNA-22Spinal crush injury at the T10intrathecal injectionmiRNA-22/GSDMDmiRNA‐22 can inhibit the pyroptosis of microglia. The combination of MSCs‐EV and miRNA‐22 can further inhibit the neuroinflammatory response after SCI, thereby improving the neurological function after SCI in rats.(98)
shRNA(shCebpb、shFcgr1)CAAT/Enhancer Binding Protein βT9-T10 spinal cord contusionIntrathecal injectionC/EBPβ-Fcgr1The C/EBPβ-Fcgr1 axis induces neuroinflammatory responses by activating microglia pyroptosis following spinal cord injury.(117)
CelastrolNLRP3Spinal crush injury at the T10Intraperitoneal injectionNFκB/p-p65Celastrol can attenuate the inflammatory response of the spinal cord after SCI, which is associated with inhibition of microglial activation and pyroptosis pathway.(105)
CynarinNrf2T9 cords by a spinal cord impactorIntraperitoneal injectionNrf2/ROS/NLRP3Cynarin inhibited the assembly of NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome by Nrf2-dependent expression to attenuate microglial pyroptosis and neuroinflammation.(79)
exo-sh-RMRPSIRT1Spinal crush injury at the T10Intravenous InjectionsEIF4A3/SIRT1OM-MSCs-Exo mitigated microglial pyroptosis and promoted motor function recovery after SCI by delivering lncRNA RMRP. Further analysis elucidated that the inhibitory roles of exosomal lncRNA RMRP on microglial pyroptosis are dependent on EIF4A3/SIRT1 signaling.(99)
AAV-GPx3GPx3C5 contusionIntraspinal administration at the site of spinal cord injury.IRAK4/ROS/NLRP3GPx3 plays a critical role in SCI by inhibiting microglial pyroptosis via the IRAK4/ROS/NLRP3 signaling pathway.
GPX3 PROMOTES FUNCTIONAL RECOVERY AFTER SCI 13		(75)
Oxindole/imidazole compound (C16)protein kinase R (STAT1)T8-T9 spinal cord contusionIntraperitoneal injectionPKR/STAT1/NLRP3PKR inhibition suppressed ER stress and NLRP3 inflammasome-related pyroptosis in microglia partly through suppressing STAT1(118)
KaempferolNLRP3C5 hemi-contusionIntraperitoneal injectionNLRP3Kaempferol could inhibite the pyroptosis related proteins (NLRP3 Caspase-1 p10 ASC N-GSDMD) and reduce the release of IL-18 and IL-1β.(106)
TRIM32 overexpressing lentivirusNEK7Spinal crush injury at the T9-T10Intraspinal administration at the site of spinal cord injury.NEK7 reversed the inhibition of pyroptosis induced by TRIM32 in a ubiquitylation-dependent mannerTRIM32
inhibits microglia pyroptosis by facilitating the ubiquitylation of NEK7 at the K64 site, thereby alleviating the progression of SCI. The findings suggest that TRIM32 has the potential to be a therapeutic target of SCI.		(119)
KanglexinPkaT9 spinal cord contusionPersralPKA/NF-κBKlx modulates microglial polarization and pyroptosis via the PKA/NF-κB signaling pathway.(107)
TaxifolinNLRP3Spinal crush injury at the T9PersralPI3K/AKTPI3K/AKT signaling pathway participates in microglial pyroptosis after SCI(108)

Summary table of studies on targeted interventions in post-SCI microglial pyroptosis and their impact on prognosis.

4.1 Cell transplantation and extracellular vesicle-based interventions

In recent years, cell transplantation and extracellular vesicle (EV)-based drug delivery technologies have rapidly advanced in the field of regenerative medicine, emerging as third-generation “biological therapeutic” strategies following small-molecule drugs and genetic engineering (87). According to the International Society for Extracellular Vesicles (ISEV), EVs are lipid bilayer-enclosed particles (including exosomes and microvesicles) naturally released by cells, capable of carrying diverse bioactive cargo (88). In addition to miRNAs or circRNAs, EVs can deliver proteins, lipids, and other therapeutic factors that aid in spinal cord repair. Compared to traditional pharmaceuticals, these approaches can cross the blood-spinal cord barrier, achieve precise delivery to lesions, and remodel the damaged microenvironment through multi-target, network-based regulation, balancing high efficacy with controllability (89, 90). In animal studies and early clinical trials for neurological disorders, stem cells and their derived extracellular vesicle have demonstrated potential in promoting neuroprotection, inflammation modulation, axonal regeneration, and functional recovery (91). Notably, extracellular vesicle inherently offer advantages such as low immunogenicity, feasibility for large-scale production, and adaptability to engineering modifications, thereby enabling safe and repeatable administration.

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) suppress microglial pyroptosis by secreting exosomal miR-709, which down-regulates NKAP; administering either Tregs themselves or their extracellular vesicles blocks microglial pyroptotic activation and ultimately improves functional recovery after SCI (92). Extracellular vesicles derived from bone-marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) deliver miR-21a-5p, which enhances PELI1-dependent autophagy and thereby inhibits microglial pyroptosis (93). Induced pluripotent stem-cell–derived neural stem cell (iPSC-NSC) extracellular vesicles can package and transfer let-7b-5p to modulate LRIG3 expression, reducing microglia/macrophage pyroptosis and boosting motor recovery in mice after SCI (94). lncRNA-F630028O10Rik, released in extracellular vesicles following TLR4 activation after SCI, heightens microglial pyroptosis through the PI3K/AKT pathway (95). Transplantation of human dental-pulp stem cells decreases microglial pyroptosis via the NLRP3/caspase-1/IL-1β axis, thereby promoting neurological recovery after SCI (96). While circ0000381 is up-regulated after SCI, miR-423-3p declines; silencing circ0000381 elevates miR-423-3p and increases microglia/macrophage pyroptosis (97). Mesenchymal-stem-cell extracellular vesicles loaded with miRNA-22 suppress microglial pyroptosis in rats following SCI (98). Exosomal lncRNA RMRP from olfactory-mucosa mesenchymal stem cells mitigates microglial pyroptosis and enhances motor recovery through the EIF4A3/SIRT1 pathway (99). In addition, miR-146a, up-regulated via Nrf2 after SCI, down-regulates GSDMD in microglia, thereby restraining their pyroptosis (100). Neutrophil membrane vesicles combined with a composite fiber scaffold reprogram microglial phenotype and metabolism during inflammation, regulating the innate immune cascade to reduce neuroinflammation and promote neural regeneration (44). This scaffold mimics an “efferocytosis-like” mechanism whereby the EVs are endocytosed by macrophages/microglia, reprogramming them towards a pro-regenerative phenotype and significantly promoting nerve fiber regeneration after SCI. his strategy exemplifies how combining biomaterial scaffolds with EV-mediated immune modulation can synergistically coordinate inflammatory resolution and tissue repair in SCI.

4.2 Pharmacological and small-molecule interventions

Small-molecule drugs and natural products are regarded as one of the most clinically translatable intervention strategies because their chemical structures are well-defined, their quality is controllable, and their routes of administration are flexible. In recent years, numerous bioactive constituents derived from medicinal herbs or diet have been shown to cross the blood–brain/spinal barriers, scavenge ROS, modulate the immune-inflammatory network and promote axonal regeneration—offering multiple-target advantages. Alongside technological advances, a series of newly synthesized small molecules have also exhibited excellent pharmacokinetic properties and selective microglial targeting, providing a rich pool of lead compounds for the precision treatment of nervous-system disorders.

The NADPH-oxidase inhibitor apocynin blocks AOPP-induced microglial pyroptosis after SCI via ROS-dependent MAPK–NF-κB and NLRP3–GSDMD pathways, thereby improving outcomes (101). Lycium barbarum glycopeptide (LbGp) up-regulates the key enzymes FADS1 and FADS2 in microglia to boost DHA production and, by suppressing the MAPK/NF-κB and pyroptosis cascades, mitigates neuro-inflammation and enhances recovery (102). Lupenone diminishes IκBα activation and p65 nuclear translocation; by modulating NF-κB it inhibits NLRP3-inflammasome activity, reduces microglial pyroptosis and alleviates motor deficits after SCI (103). Resveratrol elevates miR-124-3p, which targets DAPK1 and down-regulates the NLRP3/Caspase-1/GSDMD axis, thereby lowering microglial pyroptosis (104). Celastrol suppresses microglial pyroptosis after SCI through the NF-κB/p-p65 pathway (105). Cynarin attenuates microglial pyroptosis post-SCI by up-regulating Nrf2 (75). Lupeol activates mitophagy via the AMPK–mTOR–TFEB pathway and strengthens Na+/K+-ATPase activity, inhibiting microglial pyroptosis and slowing SCI progression. Kaempferol curbs ROS generation by inhibiting NADPH oxidase-4 and restrains microglial pyroptosis through the MAPK–NF-κB pathway (106). Kanglexin (Klx), an anthraquinone compound, enhances PKA phosphorylation while inhibiting NF-κB and IκBα phosphorylation, thus limiting NF-κB nuclear translocation and NLRP3-inflammasome-induced microglial pyroptosis (107). Taxifolin targets PI3K/Akt signaling, lessens neuro-inflammation, promotes axonal regeneration and lowers microglial pyroptosis, thereby improving functional outcomes after SCI (108).

4.3 Targeted gene intervention

With the rapid advances of gene-editing platforms such as CRISPR/Cas and TALEN, manipulating specific genes within the CNS has moved quickly from simple “proof-of-concept” studies to bona-fide functional interventions (106). Compared with conventional small-molecule or protein inhibitors, genome editing can silence or activate pathogenic/protective genes with high precision, efficiency and durability, providing a highly specific tool for modulating the inflammatory cascade and remodeling the micro-environment (109). When coupled with delivery vehicles that cross the blood–brain barrier—such as recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) and lipid-nanoparticle (LNP) systems—gene editing has already shown longer-lasting efficacy and controllable safety profiles than pharmacological therapies in multiple models of neuro­degenerative disease and SCI (110). Consequently, targeted gene intervention has become a major developmental direction for regulating microglial pyroptosis, mitigating secondary SCI, and treating other CNS disorders.

CD73 (ecto-5′-nucleotidase/NT5E) – an AMP-hydrolyzing ectoenzyme that converts extracellular ATP to adenosine. CD73 knock-down attenuates GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis by suppressing PI3K/AKT/Foxo1 signaling. After SCI, HIF-1α accumulation up-regulates CD73; in turn, CD73 over-expression amplifies HIF-1α via an adenosine–A2B receptor–p38 cascade, forming a positive-feedback loop (111). TLR4 – drives microglial pyroptosis after SCI through the STAT1/DDX3X/NLRP3 axis. Both TLR4 knockout and supplementation with biglycan (BGN) reverse this effect (112). HSPA1A (Heat-shock protein A member 1A) – a molecular chaperone highly induced after TSCI. Over-expression via lentiviral vectors up-regulates DUSP1 and inhibits MAPK signaling, thereby reducing microglial pyroptosis (113). Bmal1 – a core circadian-clock gene. Bmal1 limits microglial pyroptosis and secondary SCI by down-regulating the NF-κB/MMP9 pathway (114). FANCC (Fanconi-anemia complementation group C) – previously considered anti-inflammatory; its targeted inhibition lowers microglial pyroptosis via the p38/NLRP3 pathway (115). CerS5 (Ceramide-synthase 5) – silencing CerS5 in microglia alleviates neuro­inflammation by suppressing pyroptosis. The mechanism involves the downstream product C16-ceramide, which activates the NLRP3 pathway through Pla2g7 and NF-κB (116). C/EBPβ (CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein β) – linked to inflammatory status in neuro­degeneration; its knock-down diminishes microglia-mediated neuro­inflammation by repressing Fcgr1 transcription (117). GPx3 (Glutathione-peroxidase 3) – an antioxidant enzyme. GPx3 silencing elevates ROS and increases IRAK4 and pro-inflammatory cytokines, thereby enhancing microglial pyroptosis (75). PKR (Protein-kinase R) – a type I ER-membrane kinase traditionally associated with ER stress. In SCI it modulates microglial pyroptosis via the STAT1 pathway (118). TRIM32 – an E3-ubiquitin ligase. TRIM32 inhibits microglial pyroptosis by promoting ubiquitination of NEK7 at lysine 64, slowing SCI progression (119).

5 Discussion and future directions

Compelling evidence now demonstrates that microglial pyroptosis orchestrates secondary degenerative cascades after SCI (13, 120). As resident immune sentinels of the central nervous system, microglia are rapidly recruited and activated within minutes of trauma, initiating a robust inflammatory response. During this lytic form of programmed cell death, microglia undergo rapid swelling and lysis, releasing inflammatory mediators (e.g., IL-1β, IL-18) and cellular contents. These mediators exacerbate local neuroinflammatory cascades, causing further damage to adjacent neurons and oligodendrocytes and amplifying secondary tissue damage (121). Conversely, multiple pre-clinical studies show that genetic or pharmacological suppression of microglial pyroptosis markedly attenuates neuroinflammation, limits cellular loss and accelerates locomotor recovery post-SCI (57, 75, 116).

Nano-sized extracellular vesicles have emerged as versatile carriers for anti-pyroptotic cargo. extracellular vesicles, with their small size and low immunogenicity, can penetrate the blood-spinal cord barrier and evade mononuclear phagocyte clearance (122, 123). Studies utilizing stem cell-derived exosomes as carriers for delivering anti-pyroptosis molecules have shown efficacy (124). The advantages of extracellular vesicles include targeted delivery and tissue permeability, but challenges remain in their high preparation/purification costs, complex processes, and lack of standardized quality control. Critically, batch-to-batch consistency in bioactivity and clarity of active components must be resolved before clinical translation.

A growing pharmacopeia of small-molecule inhibitors, antioxidant polyphenols and natural compounds can attenuate microglial pyroptosis in vivo (125, 126). Anti-inflammatory or antioxidant small molecules (e.g., Taxifolin, resveratrol, luteolin) have been shown to attenuate neuroinflammation and suppress microglial pyroptosis post-SCI. These drugs benefit from mature production processes and ease of administration, with some natural compounds exhibiting favorable biosafety (79, 105). Nevertheless, their pleiotropic targets and limited cell specificity raise concern regarding off-target immunosuppression, and systemic delivery must still overcome the blood–spinal cord barrier to achieve therapeutic concentrations while minimizing adverse effects.

Gene-based interventions, such as knockout or silencing of key nodes in pyroptosis pathways, provide robust evidence in animal studies (127, 128). Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) or lipid nanoparticles delivering shRNA/siRNA have also emerged as tools to inhibit microglial pyroptosis (129, 130). Gene therapies offer high specificity and durable effects by targeting critical pyroptosis molecules. However, clinical translation faces hurdles, including immune responses to delivery vectors, safety/ethical concerns regarding gene editing, and ensuring cell-specific targeting without compromising systemic immunity (131, 132). Furthermore, these approaches are costly, technically demanding, and logistically challenging in acute injury scenarios.

Each intervention modality for modulating microglial pyroptosis carries distinct advantages and limitations. EV-based biological therapies (including cell transplants and EV carriers) enable targeted multi-factorial modulation of the injury microenvironment, with the ability to cross the BSCB and high biocompatibility; however, their production is costly and complex, and standardization of contents and potency remains challenging. Small-molecule drugs, by contrast, are easy to administer and can broadly suppress inflammation or oxidative stress; they benefit from well-established manufacturing and generally good safety profiles, but often lack cell-type specificity and must effectively penetrate into the spinal cord, raising concerns about off-target effects. Gene-editing and gene-silencing approaches (e.g. CRISPR/Cas9 or RNAi therapies) precisely target key pyroptosis-related genes with potentially long-lasting effects, yet they face significant hurdles including immune responses to viral or nanoparticle delivery vectors, ethical and safety considerations, and technical complexity in delivery to the injured CNS. In practice, the optimal approach may depend on the context: small molecules might be favored for acute, systemic intervention, whereas EV-based or gene therapies could offer more specific, sustained effects in subacute or chronic phases. Ultimately, a combination of these strategies may be required to achieve optimal neuroprotection and functional recovery after SCI.

Despite these advances, critical knowledge gaps persist. Foremost, the cell-type-specific contribution to the pyroptotic burden is poorly defined: infiltrating macrophages, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes and neurons may die via pyroptosis alongside microglia (2, 133). Most studies focus on inflammasome activation in mixed glial populations or whole spinal tissue, lacking resolution of pyroptosis dynamics in specific cell types (134). This obscures the relative contributions of microglial versus other cell pyroptosis to secondary injury. For instance, conflating microglia with monocyte-derived macrophages in analyses may mask functional differences. Advanced in vivo tracing and purified in vitro models are needed to dissect cell-specific mechanisms.

Second, functional distinctions among Gasdermin (GSDM) family members in SCI remain poorly understood (67). While GSDMD is widely recognized as the executor of inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis, recent studies suggest GSDME and other family members may mediate pyroptosis via alternative pathways (e.g., caspase-3 activation) (68, 135). In SCI, GSDMD-driven microglial pyroptosis is well-documented, but evidence for roles of GSDME, GSDMC, or other “non-canonical” pyroptosis pathways in neuronal or glial death is lacking. This gap limits our holistic understanding of pyroptosis networks in SCI.

Third, the optimal therapeutic window for pyroptosis inhibition requires clarification (136). Secondary injury spans acute, subacute, and chronic phases, with pyroptosis activity and tissue impacts likely varying across stages (137, 138). While inflammasome components and cleaved GSDMD surge in early injury (hours to days), long-term pyroptosis activity (weeks to chronic phases) remains inconsistently reported (139). Endogenous regulatory mechanisms may partially suppress pyroptosis but fail to halt progressive damage (140, 141). Timing interventions is thus critical: early blockade might disrupt essential immune clearance, whereas delayed action risks irreversible inflammatory cascades. Systematic temporal mapping of pyroptosis activity and intervention efficacy is needed to define optimal clinical windows.

In summary, converging advances in multi-omic analytics, bio-engineered delivery systems and genome editing are poised to transform our mechanistic understanding of microglial pyroptosis into clinically actionable therapies, with the potential to lessen the lifelong disability burden of SCI.

Statements

Author contributions

LS: Conceptualization, Writing – review & editing, Writing – original draft. QQ: Writing – original draft, Formal Analysis. JX: Resources, Writing – original draft. TY: Writing – review & editing, Writing – original draft, Software. XZ: Writing – original draft. XM: Writing – review & editing, Writing – original draft, Project administration. JD: Writing – review & editing, Writing – original draft, Project administration. QJ: Writing – original draft, Conceptualization, Writing – review & editing.

Funding

The author(s) declare financial support was received for the research and/or publication of this article. This study was supported by the Beijing Natural Science Foundation (Project No. 7232308); the Youth Science and Technology Talent Training Program of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences (Project No. ZZ16-YQ-060); the Esoteric and Endangered Disciplines Research Program of the National Social Science Foundation of China (Project No. 23VJXG015), Suzhou Major Diseases Multicenter Clinical Research Project (Project No. DZXYJ202308), and the Postgraduate Research & Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province (Project No. KYCX25_3954).

Conflict of interest

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

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Summary

Keywords

traumatic spinal cord injury, pyroptosis, microglia, inflammation, NLRP3, GSDMD

Citation

Shi L, Qian Q, Xie J, Yang T, Zhao X, Meng X, Dai J and Jin Q (2025) Microglial pyroptosis as a therapeutic target after traumatic spinal cord injury: current progress and future directions. Front. Immunol. 16:1649790. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2025.1649790

Received

20 June 2025

Accepted

05 August 2025

Published

22 August 2025

Volume

16 - 2025

Edited by

Philippe Saas, Etablissement Français du Sang AuRA, France

Reviewed by

Ziheng Pu, Daping Hospital, China

Updates

Copyright

© 2025 Shi, Qian, Xie, Yang, Zhao, Meng, Dai and Jin.

This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) and the copyright owner(s) are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.

*Correspondence: Xiangqi Meng, ; Jingang Dai, ; Qiguan Jin,

†These authors have contributed equally to this work

Disclaimer

All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article or claim that may be made by its manufacturer is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

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