caspase1inflammasome

Caspase-1 inflammasome refers to a multiprotein complex that plays a critical role in innate immunity. Its primary function is to sense danger signals and initiate an inflammatory response. The inflammasome is typically composed of a pattern recognition receptor, an adaptor protein, and pro-caspase-1. When activated by pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) or danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), these components assemble to form the active inflammasome complex. This assembly leads to the auto-cleavage and activation of pro-caspase-1 into its mature, enzymatic form.

Activated caspase-1 then acts as a protease, cleaving and activating pro-inflammatory cytokines, most notably pro-interleukin-1 beta (pro-IL-1β) and pro-interleukin-18 (pro-IL-18). These cytokines are then secreted from the cell and trigger a potent inflammatory cascade, contributing to fever, recruitment of immune cells, and host defense against pathogens. Dysregulation of caspase-1 inflammasome activity has been implicated in a variety of inflammatory diseases, including autoimmune disorders, metabolic syndrome, and neurodegenerative conditions. Research continues to explore the intricate mechanisms of inflammasome activation and its therapeutic potential.