The NLRP1 inflammasome: new mechanistic insights and unresolved mysteries.

ABSTRACT: Nucleotide-binding domain, leucine-rich repeat (NLR) proteins constitute a diverse class of innate immune sensors that detect pathogens or stress-associated stimuli in plants and animals. Some NLRs are activated upon direct binding to pathogen-derived ligands. In contrast, we focus here on a vertebrate NLR called NLRP1 that responds to the enzymatic activities of pathogen effectors. We discuss a newly proposed 'functional degradation' mechanism that explains activation and assembly of NLRP1 into an oligomeric complex called an inflammasome. We also discuss how NLRP1 is activated by non-pathogen-associated triggers such as the anti-cancer drug Val-boroPro, or by human disease-associated mutations. Finally, we discuss how research on NLRP1 has led to additional biological insights, including the unexpected discovery of a new CARD8 inflammasome.

SUBMITTER: Mitchell PS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6800612 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature