The roles of microglia and astrocytes in inflammasomes and neurological disorders

Inflammasomes, a category of protein complexes, recognize exogenous pathogens and endogenous tissue damage. In response, they induce inflammatory responses and pyroptosis, and are involved in both innate immunity and the regulation of adaptive immunity, with significant effects in disease and health. Neuroinflammation is closely related to neurological disorders. Nervous system homeostasis is primarily regulated by glial cells, with microglia and astrocytes playing a dual role in both neuroprotection and neurotoxicity. Recent studies highlight the importance of microglia and astrocytes within the central nervous system in mediating neuroinflammation associated with neuropsychiatric diseases. In particular, the role of inflammasomes in glial cells and neuroinflammation has garnered growing attention. This review classifies inflammasomes and their activation mechanisms as well as explores their involvement in the activation of microglia and astrocytes in various neurological diseases, aiming to contribute a deeper understanding of the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disease and brain injury and identification of novel therapeutic targets.