Several key molecules are critical in the process of ICD: - Calreticulin: Exposed on the surface of dying cells, acting as an "eat-me" signal. - ATP: Released from dying cells, it functions as a "find-me" signal and activates immune cells. - HMGB1: A non-histone chromatin-binding protein released during ICD, it binds to TLR4 on dendritic cells, enhancing antigen presentation. - Type I Interferons: These cytokines are produced in response to DAMPs and play a critical role in the activation of the immune response.
