NOD-like receptor pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3)

NOD-like receptor pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) is a cytosolic pattern-recognition receptor that forms the core of the NLRP3 inflammasome, a multiprotein signaling platform in innate immune cells (predominantly macrophages). It senses a broad range of danger signals (PAMPs and DAMPs), leading to recruitment of adaptor protein ASC and pro-caspase-1, resulting in activation of caspase-1. This leads to maturation and secretion of the cytokines IL-1β and IL-18, and can trigger pyroptosis. When dysregulated, NLRP3 contributes to various inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, as well as some metabolic, neurodegenerative, and cardiovascular conditions. NLRP3 is actively investigated as a drug target, but specific inhibitors are mostly in preclinical or clinical trial stages. The query’s name "NOD-like receptor heat protein domain-related protein 3" is inaccurate and not standard in scientific literature. The universally acknowledged and biomedically relevant target is "NOD-like receptor pyrin domain-containing protein 3" (NLRP3).

Other names

NACHT, LRR, and PYD domains-containing protein 3 (NALP3)CryopyrinCold-induced autoinflammatory syndrome 1 (CIAS1)PYRIN-containing APAF1-like protein 1 (PYPAF1)Caterpillar-like receptor 1.1 (CLR1.1)

Direct inhibitors block NLRP3 activation/oligomerization. Drugs targeting NLRP3 prevent inflammasome assembly, caspase-1 activation, and subsequent release of IL-1β and IL-18.