The NLRP3 inflammasome,which consists of the NLRP3(nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain(Nod)–like receptor 3)scaffold,the ASC(apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD)adaptor and procaspase-1,is assembled after the cytoplasmic LRRs(leucine-rich repeats)of NLRP3 sense pathogens or danger signals.The NLRP3 inflammasome controls the activation of the proteolytic enzyme caspase-1.Caspase-1in turn regulates the maturation of the proinflammasome cytokines IL-1βand IL-18,which leads to an inflammatory response.The inflammasome plays an important role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease and bacterial meningitis,and the NLRP3 inflammasome may become a new target for the prevention and treatment of central nervous system diseases.
