Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 15, 2026
09:04
Activation and Measurement of NLRP3 Inflammasome Activity Using IL-1β in Human Monocyte-derived Dendritic Cells
Published on: May 22, 2014
Modulatory mechanisms controlling the NLRP3 inflammasome in inflammation: recent developments
Moritz Haneklaus1, Luke A J O'Neill, Rebecca C Coll
1School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland.
Current Opinion in Immunology
|January 12, 2013
Summary
The NLRP3 inflammasome protein regulates inflammation and is linked to various diseases. Understanding its control mechanisms is key to developing new therapies for inflammatory conditions.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- The NLRP3 inflammasome is a key regulator of inflammatory processes.
- It is implicated in hereditary cryopyrinopathies and diseases like gout, Type 2 diabetes, and atherosclerosis.
- NLRP3 controls caspase-1, which activates the inflammatory cytokine IL-1β.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the regulatory mechanisms controlling NLRP3 inflammasome activation.
- To highlight the potential for therapeutic targeting of NLRP3.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on NLRP3 regulation.
- Analysis of molecular pathways involved in NLRP3 activation.
Main Results:
- NLRP3 activation is modulated by redox status, ubiquitination, miRNA-223, kinases, and calcium ions.
- These regulatory pathways offer potential targets for therapeutic intervention.
Conclusions:
- NLRP3 is a critical inflammasome sensor with broad implications in inflammatory diseases.
- Further research into NLRP3 regulation can lead to novel pharmacological strategies and improved clinical utility.
Related Concept Videos
02:26NF-κB-dependent Signaling Pathway
The transcription factor NF-κB was discovered in 1986 in the lab of Nobel laureate Professor David Baltimore, for its interaction with the immunoglobulin light chain enhancer in B-cells. After more than three decades of study, it is now evident that NF-κB regulates the expression of over 100 genes. Most of these genes play an essential role in the innate and adaptive immune responses as well as the inflammatory responses of animals.
NF-κB-dependent Signaling Mechanism
The heterodimer of NF-κB...
NF-κB-dependent Signaling Mechanism
The heterodimer of NF-κB...
01:25Inflammatory Bowel Disease III: Crohn's Disease
Crohn’s disease is a chronic, relapsing form of inflammatory bowel disease characterized by segmental, transmural inflammation that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract. Its pathogenesis arises from a combination of genetic susceptibility, environmental exposures, epithelial barrier dysfunction, and immune dysregulation. Together, these factors lead to an exaggerated immune response against components of the gut microbiome.Genetic and Environmental InfluencesMultiple genetic...
01:28Inflammatory Response
An inflammatory response is a localized, nonspecific immune reaction that occurs when a tissue is injured. It is characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pain, which are commonly called the cardinal signs and symptoms of inflammation. Inflammation can sometimes result in a loss of function.
Inflammation can be triggered by various stimuli, such as impact, abrasion, chemical irritation, infections, and extreme hot or cold temperatures. These can damage cells and connective tissue fibers,...
Inflammation can be triggered by various stimuli, such as impact, abrasion, chemical irritation, infections, and extreme hot or cold temperatures. These can damage cells and connective tissue fibers,...
01:12Chronic Inflammation: Introduction
Chronic inflammation is a prolonged, dysregulated immune response that persists for weeks to years when the inciting stimulus is difficult to eradicate or when self‑antigens drive ongoing reactivity. Morphologically, it is defined by mononuclear cell infiltration, progressive tissue destruction, and concurrent attempts at healing via angiogenesis and fibrosis. Compared with acute inflammation, edema is less prominent while cellular infiltration predominates; triggers include persistent...
01:38Inflammation
Overview
01:26Acute Inflammation I: Inflammatory Response
Acute inflammation is a rapid, short-lived physiological response to tissue injury or infection, designed to eliminate harmful agents and initiate repair. This tightly regulated process typically lasts from minutes to several days and is triggered by factors such as microbial invasion, physical trauma, or chemical injury.Recognition and Mediator ReleaseThe inflammatory response begins when resident immune cells—such as mast cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells—detect damage-associated...