PANoptosis as a Therapeutic Target for COVID-19

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spreads rapidly and can lead to a high mortality rate, particularly in severe cases. The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants with enhanced immune evasion capabilities and the persistent symptoms of Long Coronavirus Disease (COVID), including intermittent dyspnea, fatigue, and brain fog, have garnered global attention. The pathogenesis of COVID-19 is attributed to both direct viral damage and an excessive secondary inflammatory response within the host. The latter, in particular, is a crucial factor in disrupting immune homeostasis. Recent research suggests a strong association between PANoptosis, a complex cell death process involving multiple pathways, and the occurrence of cytokine storm syndrome following SARS-CoV-2 infection. PANoptosis has been implicated in the development of various infectious diseases. This review explores the potential mechanisms underlying SARS-CoV-2-induced inflammatory cell death, specifically PANoptosis, and the subsequent cytokine storm. By understanding these processes, we can identify potential therapeutic targets for related diseases.