Caspase-1 (ICE)

Caspase-1, also known as Interleukin-1 converting enzyme (ICE), is a cysteine protease that plays a central role in the inflammatory response and innate immunity. It functions by cleaving precursor forms of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin 1β (IL-1β) and interleukin 18 (IL-18), into their active mature forms. Caspase-1 also processes Gasdermin D, which induces pyroptosis—a form of programmed lytic cell death important for host defense. Activation occurs through recruitment to inflammasomes. Dysregulation is implicated in various diseases, making it a therapeutic target.

Other names

Interleukin-1 converting enzymeCASP1

Caspase-1 inhibitors prevent the cleavage and activation of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-18) and Gasdermin D, thus reducing inflammation and pyroptosis.