International journal of molecular medicineSep 4, 2026

Cell Death in Metabolic Syndrome: From How It Happens to Possible Treatments

Longevity & Aging Weekly Brief ↗PubMed ↗DOI ↗

Updated Sep 5, 2026

Abstract

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is associated with increased risks of type 2 diabetes mellitus, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and atherosclerosis.

MetS is characterized by insulin resistance, central obesity, hyperglycemia, hypertension, and dyslipidemia.
Current treatments focus on weight reduction and pharmacological interventions, but their effectiveness is suboptimal.
Programmed cell death (PCD) plays a significant role in the inflammation related to MetS development and progression.
Various forms of PCD, including apoptosis and autophagy, contribute to the pathogenesis of MetS.
Emerging therapeutic strategies may target the PCD network to improve treatment outcomes for MetS.

Simplified

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a clinical syndrome primarily characterized by insulin resistance, integrating central obesity, hyperglycemia, hypertension and dyslipidemia. It is associated with increased risks of type 2 diabetes mellitus, non‑alcoholic fatty liver disease and atherosclerosis. Due to its high prevalence, complex pathogenesis and lack of effective treatments, MetS has become a notable global health issue. Current therapeutic approaches mainly emphasize weight reduction through caloric restriction and increased physical activity, or pharmacological interventions to improve lipid profiles, blood pressure and blood glucose; however, their efficacy remains suboptimal. Growing evidence indicates that programmed cell death (PCD), as a key driver of inflammation, serves a crucial role in the development and progression of MetS. The present review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in the understanding of how established and emerging forms of PCD contribute to MetS pathogenesis, including apoptosis, pyroptosis, autophagy, ferroptosis, necroptosis, PANoptosis and disulfidptosis. Particular emphasis is placed on their molecular mechanisms, tissue‑specific functions, regulatory crosstalk and therapeutic potential. Additionally, the present review discusses novel regulatory approaches and potential therapeutic strategies based on PCD network intervention, offering theoretical foundations and directions for developing innovative therapies to prevent and treat MetS and its complications.

Cell Death in Metabolic Syndrome: From How It Happens to Possible Treatments

Abstract

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