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NLRP3 Inflammasome

Meaning

The NLRP3 inflammasome is a multi-protein intracellular complex that acts as a crucial sensor of cellular danger, activating the innate immune response upon detection of various pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) or danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). Upon activation, this complex processes pro-inflammatory cytokines, specifically pro-Interleukin-1 beta (pro-IL-1β) and pro-IL-18, into their mature, secreted forms, thereby driving systemic inflammation. Dysregulation of the NLRP3 inflammasome is implicated in numerous chronic inflammatory and metabolic diseases.