Abstract

The nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain, leucine-rich repeat and pyrin domain containing (NLRP) family is an important group of intracellular pattern recognition receptors. Some members of this family can form large cytosolic protein complexes termed ‘inflammasomes’ that promote caspase-1-mediated release of IL-1-beta and IL-18, as well as the inflammatory cell death known as pyriptosis.

NLRP3 , also known as cryopyrin or NALP3 , is one of the best-characterized NLRP family members. NLRP3 inflammasome is an important intracellular sensor of microbial pathogens and stress signals. Studies using targeted disruption of NLRP3 have revealed key roles for this inflammasome in innate immunity and inflammation, as well as in autoimmune diseases, metabolic disorders, and cancers. I will present our recent progress in understanding the mechanisms underlying inflammation mediated by NLRP3 inflammasome in mice and in humans.