NLRP3–NEK7 complex (NLRP3–NEK7)

The NLRP3–NEK7 complex is a critical protein–protein interaction that licenses the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, a multiprotein platform responsible for sensing cellular damage and triggering inflammatory responses through the maturation and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1β and interleukin-18. NLRP3 serves as a cytosolic pattern recognition receptor, while NEK7, a serine/threonine kinase, interacts with and facilitates the oligomerization and activation of NLRP3 under conditions of cellular stress, such as potassium efflux or damage-associated signals. Disruption of the NLRP3–NEK7 interaction is a validated strategy for attenuating inflammasome-driven pathologies, including auto-inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases, though targeting this axis must balance efficacy with potential adverse effects on cell division and immune function.

Other names

NLRP3–NEK7 interactionNLRP3–NEK7 interfaceNLRP3–NEK7 inflammasome complex

Inhibition of NLRP3–NEK7 binding to suppress inflammasome assembly/activation Blockade of ATP binding to NLRP3 NACHT domain Allosteric modulation of NLRP3 conformation to prevent NEK7 engagement