The NLRP3 (NLR family, pyrin domain containing 3) inflammasome is a multi-protein complex responsible for the activation of caspase-1 and the subsequent cleavage and activation of the potent proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-18, and pyroptotic cell death. NLRP3 is implicated as a driver of inflammation in a range of disorders including neurodegenerative diseases, type 2 diabetes, and atherosclerosis. A commonly reported mechanism contributing to NLRP3 inflammasome activation is potassium ion (K ) efflux across the plasma membrane.
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