Inflammasomes: Key regulators of inflammation and emerging therapeutic targets

Abstract

Inflammasomes are multiprotein complexes that play a pivotal character in the natural immune system by finding pathogens and cellular stress signals. Their activation leads to the maturation and release of cytokines, such as interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-18 (IL-18), and induces programmed cell death. Among the inflammasomes, the NLRP3 inflammasome is the most studied because of its presence in various infectious, autoimmune, and metabolic disorders. Dysregulated inflammasome activity has been seen in diseases like gout, Alzheimer's disease, atherosclerosis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Present day studies have focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms governing assembly of inflammasomes, regulation, and inhibition. Targeting inflammasome pathways presents a promising therapeutic approach for managing chronic inflammatory diseases. Small-molecule inhibitors, biologics, and natural compounds are being explored to modulate inflammasome activation with potential clinical applications. However, challenges such as off-target effects and immune suppression need to be addressed. This review summarizes recent advances in inflammasome biology, their pathological implications, and potential therapeutic interventions.