Inclusion bodies can form due to various mechanisms. Some of the common pathways include:
Viral Infections: The replication and assembly of viruses within host cells can lead to the formation of viral inclusion bodies. These inclusions can interfere with cellular functions and lead to cell death. Protein Misfolding: Cellular stress or genetic mutations can lead to the misfolding of proteins, which then aggregate to form inclusion bodies. This is a common feature in neurodegenerative diseases. Metabolic Disorders: Disruption in normal metabolic processes can lead to the accumulation of metabolic intermediates or by-products, forming inclusion bodies. For example, lipid inclusions are often seen in metabolic conditions like Gaucher’s disease.
