Inflammasomes and their roles in autoimmune diseases

Abstract

Abstract Autoimmune diseases are immune disorders in which the immune system mistakenly targets and attacks the normal cells, tissues, and organs of the patients. The etiology of autoimmune diseases is complex and multifactorial. This review aims to provide a general introduction to the immunological functions of inflammasomes and describe the role of inflammasomes in disorders characterized by self‐directed inflammation, with a particular focus on several common autoimmune diseases. We reviewed current research on the mechanisms of inflammasome activation and inflammasomes' contribution to autoimmune diseases. Inhibitors targeting inflammasome components were also explored for their potential in therapeutic applications. With increasing research on mechanisms of inflammation of the pathologic conditions, accumulated evidence suggests that the aberrant or uncontrolled activation of inflammasomes contributes to the pathogenesis and development of autoimmune diseases. Additionally, inflammasome‐targeting drugs have shown promise in treating autoimmune diseases. Insights into the mechanisms governing inflammasome activation and their roles in autoimmune diseases could contribute to the development of novel anti‐inflammatory drugs for the prevention and treatment of autoimmune diseases with enhanced targeting precision and reduced adverse reactions.

Keywords

• autoimmune diseases
• inflammasomes
• inflammation
• pro‐inflammatory cytokines