Insight into the inflammasome and caspase-activating mechanisms

Abstract

Inflammasomes are recently discovered molecular complexes that can sense danger signals and specifically activate caspase-1 and -5 and proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and IL-18). Upon signaling, the inflammasome complex forms around a NOD-like receptor family member that serves both as a danger sensor and as a recruiting platform. The number of known triggers that stimulate inflammasomes is rapidly rising, ranging from genetic mutations to microbial products, gout crystals, ultraviolet light and adjuvant chemicals. As a result of this surprising diversity, the inflammasome may have a significant impact on most medical fields. A good understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying its activation/regulation is essential today, as several therapeutic and diagnostic tools have already reached the bedside, and more are sure to come.

Keywords::

• anakinra
• autoinflammatory disorders
• caspase
• inflammasome
• innate immunity
• interleukin
• NALP
• NLR
• Vx-765

Financial & competing interests disclosure

HM Hoffman is a consultant for Regeneron Pharmaceuticals. The authors have no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.

No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.