Damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) in diseases: implications for therapy.

Damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) are endogenous danger signal molecules released by damaged, stressed or dead cells that bind to pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), activating immune responses and inflammatory signaling pathways to play critical regulatory roles in various pathophysiological processes. This review classifies DAMPs into three major categories (protein-based, nucleic acid-based and mitochondria-derived) based on distinct molecular characteristics and biological functions, analyzing their structural features and functional differences. We systematically summarize current understanding of DAMP molecular transformation mechanisms, release pathways and recognition processes, with in-depth discussion of their pathological roles in major diseases including cancer, cardiovascular diseases and respiratory disorders.