Extracellular Vesicle-mediated Transfer of GSDME-NT Pores as a Mechanism of Inflammation Propagation
Date of Award
2026
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Neuroscience
First Advisor
Rocco Gogliotti
Abstract
Inflammasomes are multiprotein complexes that initiate inflammatory signaling through activation of caspase-1, cytokine maturation, and cleavage of Gasdermin D (GSDMD). Cleaved GSDMD forms membrane pores that contribute to cytokine release and pyroptotic cell death. Recent evidence suggests that extracellular vesicles (EVs) may facilitate the intercellular transfer of inflammatory mediators. This study investigated whether GSDMD N-terminal fragment (GSDMD-NT) associates with EV-enriched fractions and contributes to inflammation propagation. Doxycycline-inducible HeLa cells expressing FLAG-tagged GSDMD-NT were used to generate EV-enriched fractions. Western blot analysis detected GSDMD-NT-associated material within EV fractions, while EV marker analysis supported successful enrichment of EV-associated material. Exposure of recipient HeLa cells to these fractions did not increase LDH release, suggesting limited membrane damage under the conditions tested. Future studies should further characterize EV cargo, quantify EV populations, and investigate the effects of GSDMD-NT-associated EVs on physiologically relevant recipient cells, including neuronal and glial systems.
Recommended Citation
Xiao, Bifeng, "Extracellular Vesicle-mediated Transfer of GSDME-NT Pores as a Mechanism of Inflammation Propagation" (2026). Master's Theses. 4588.
https://ecommons.luc.edu/luc_theses/4588
