Summary
Cytosolic complexes that activate caspase-1 to release IL-1 beta and trigger pyroptosis.
In depth
NLRP3 senses danger signals such as crystals and potassium efflux, activating caspase-1, which cleaves pro-IL-1β and gasdermin D to cause pyroptosis. Gain-of-function mutations cause periodic fever syndromes.
Inflammasome assembly uses ASC adaptor proteins forming specks. Overactivation causes autoinflammatory diseases. Inhibitors (such as for NLRP3) are being tested for gout and heart disease.
Key idea: they sense danger and convert it into inflammatory signalling.
Frequently asked questions
What is Inflammasomes?
Cytosolic complexes that activate caspase-1 to release IL-1 beta and trigger pyroptosis.
Which area of biology covers Inflammasomes, and how advanced is it?
Inflammasomes is one of the 52 topics in Immunology & Disease. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Cytokines, T Cell Receptor Signalling, Blood Groups and Transfusion.
Can you give an example of Inflammasomes?
Uric acid crystals activate NLRP3 in gout.
What should I learn before Inflammasomes?
Work through the Beginner topics in Immunology & Disease first, such as Immune System, Viruses, Innate Immunity, then return to Inflammasomes. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to Inflammasomes?
The closest topics to Inflammasomes are Cytokines, T Cell Receptor Signalling, Blood Groups and Transfusion, CAR-T Cell Therapy. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Inflammasomes?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Inflammasomes. To practise the whole of Immunology & Disease, use the Immunology & Disease quiz.
How is Inflammasomes different from Cytokines?
Inflammasomes: Cytosolic complexes that activate caspase-1 to release IL-1 beta and trigger pyroptosis. Cytokines: Small signalling proteins such as interleukins and interferons that coordinate immune cell behaviour. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Inflammasomes step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Cytokines and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Immunology & Disease quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.