Inflammasomes: Role in Disease Pathogenesis and Therapeutic Potential

Abstract

The structure of inflammasomes, history of their discovery, and their potential use as therapeutic targets were discussed. Inflammasomes represent cytosolic polyprotein complexes that are formed in response to various external and internal stimuli, including viral and bacterial infections. The main products of inflammasomes are pro-inflammatory cytokines: interleukin-1-beta (IL-1β) and interleukin-18 (IL-18). Both cytokines are formed through proteolytic cleavage by active caspase-1. Caspase-1 activation leads to a special form of cell death called pyroptosis. Depending on external stimuli (bacterial, viral infections, cell damage, changes in ion concentration), various types of inflammasomes are activated. The possibilities of using caspase-1 inhibitors and other drugs in medicine were described.