NLRP3 inflammasome activation: The convergence of multiple signalling pathways on ROS production?

Nat Rev Immunol. 2010 Mar;10(3):210-5. doi: 10.1038/nri2725. Epub 2010 Feb 19.

Abstract

The NLR family, pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is a multiprotein complex that activates caspase 1, leading to the processing and secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) and IL-18. The NLRP3 inflammasome is activated by a wide range of danger signals that derive not only from microorganisms but also from metabolic dysregulation. It is unclear how these highly varied stress signals can be detected by a single inflammasome. In this Opinion article, we review the different signalling pathways that have been proposed to engage the NLRP3 inflammasome and suggest a model in which one of the crucial elements for NLRP3 activation is the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS).

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / pharmacology
  • Antigen-Antibody Complex / immunology
  • Antigen-Antibody Complex / metabolism
  • Carrier Proteins / immunology
  • Carrier Proteins / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / drug therapy
  • Inflammation / immunology
  • Inflammation / metabolism*
  • Interleukin-1 / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Interleukin-1 / immunology
  • Mice
  • Mice, Knockout
  • NLR Family, Pyrin Domain-Containing 3 Protein
  • Reactive Oxygen Species / immunology
  • Reactive Oxygen Species / metabolism*
  • Signal Transduction

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Antigen-Antibody Complex
  • Carrier Proteins
  • Interleukin-1
  • NLR Family, Pyrin Domain-Containing 3 Protein
  • Nlrp3 protein, mouse
  • Reactive Oxygen Species