NINJ1: implications for plasma membrane rupture and disease.

Cell death pathways are ancient strategies that maintain homeostasis and protect organisms from infection and injury. Lytic cell death culminates in the rupture of the plasma membrane, which was recently revealed to be driven by Ninjurin-1 (NINJ1), a plasma membrane protein that oligomerizes during cell death. NINJ1 oligomerization creates lesions in the plasma membrane that facilitate the release of cytosolic contents. In the present review, we discuss what is currently known about NINJ1 biology, focusing on the most current research into potential mechanisms of activation. We then highlight how NINJ1 has been implicated in specific disease contexts and discuss potential ways NINJ1 may contribute to disease. We conclude with the remaining open questions relating to NINJ1 biology.