Abstract

Various human cells undergo self-destruction to uphold biological equilibrium and safeguard the body against pathogens, a phenomenon known as regulated cell death (RCD). Among these processes, apoptosis has long been a focal point due to its role in clearing aberrant cells. However, tumor cells often evade apoptosis, leading to treatment resistance and recurrence. Consequently, researchers have turned their attention to alternative RCD pathways, including necroptosis, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and cuproptosis, which have emerged as pivotal targets in cancer therapy. These alternative RCD pathways have been extensively studied for their potential to overcome treatment resistance and enhance therapeutic effectiveness. Moreover, evidence suggests that cancer cells undergoing regulated death can modulate the tumor microenvironment (TME), potentially impeding cancer progression and metastasis. Additionally, other components of the TME undergo these forms of cell death, prompting immune responses against tumor cells and bolstering antitumor activities.