Work

NLRP3 inflammasome and pyroptosis: implications in inflammation and multisystem disorders

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The NLRP3 inflammasome is a multiprotein complex that senses diverse pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), activating the pyroptosis pathway. Pyroptosis is a form of programmed cell death that plays a crucial role in immune responses and inflammatory processes. The NLRP3 inflammasome-gasdermin D (GSDMD) axis has emerged as a critical therapeutic target in inflammatory diseases. Oligomerization of NLRP3 triggers caspase-1 activation, which subsequently induces GSDMD palmitoylation-an essential event that facilitates pyroptosis. Clinically, NLRP3 inhibitors, such as MCC950, demonstrate protective effects in NLRP3-mediated inflammatory diseases. GSDMD holds substantial potential as a diagnostic, monitoring, and therapeutic target across diverse diseases, underscoring its utility as a pan-biomarker. This review aims to synthesize current knowledge regarding the structure and function of the NLRP3 inflammasome and the regulatory mechanisms governing pyroptosis. Additionally, integrating findings from multiple physiological systems highlights the key roles of the NLRP3 inflammasome and pyroptosis in disease pathogenesis, offering novel perspectives for targeting inflammatory responses and associated disorders.

Source: PeerJ

DOI: 10.7717/peerj.19887

Authors: Xiaodi Li, Zhiyuan Zhang, Yang Han, Mianzhi Zhang

Institution: Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Language: English

Topic: Inflammasome and immune disorders

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,395