Unraveling the NLRP family: Structure, function, activation, critical influence on tumor progression, and potential

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Xueqing Zhou1, Yongguang Tao1, Ying Shi1

  • 1Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China; Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China.

Cancer Letters
|October 4, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing proteins (NLRPs) are crucial for innate immunity and cancer progression. Targeting NLRPs offers a promising therapeutic strategy, potentially enhancing immune checkpoint inhibitor efficacy.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • The innate immune system relies on pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) for initial defense.
  • Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing proteins (NLRPs) are key PRRs that form inflammasomes, regulating inflammation and innate immunity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive overview of NLRP structure, function, and activation mechanisms.
  • To explore the role of NLRPs in cancer progression and their potential as therapeutic targets.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on NLRPs' role in immunity and cancer.
  • Analysis of NLRPs' differential expression and impact on cancer hallmarks.
  • Examination of NLRPs as therapeutic targets, including combination strategies with immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Main Results:

  • NLRPs are significantly implicated in various human cancers.
  • NLRPs influence cancer progression by modulating immune responses, cell fate, and proliferation.
  • NLRPs represent promising therapeutic targets in oncology.

Conclusions:

  • NLRPs play a critical role in both innate immunity and cancer development.
  • Targeting NLRPs may offer novel therapeutic avenues for cancer treatment.
  • Combining NLRP-targeted therapies with immune checkpoint inhibitors shows potential clinical value.
Keywords:
CancerImmunityNLRP inflammasomeNLRP3NLRP3 inhibitors

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