Therapeutic interventions target the NLRP3 inflammasome in ulcerative colitis: Comprehensive study

Abstract

One of the significant health issues in the world is the prevalence of ulcerative colitis (UC). UC is a chronic disorder that mainly affects the colon, beginning with the rectum, and can progress from asymptomatic mild inflammation to extensive inflammation of the entire colon. Understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms of UC pathogenesis emphasizes the need for innovative therapeutic approaches based on identifying molecular targets. Interestingly, in response to cellular injury, the NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is a crucial part of the inflammation and immunological reaction by promoting caspase-1 activation and the release of interleukin-1β. This review discusses the mechanisms of NLRP3 inflammasome activation by various signals and its regulation and impact on UC.

Keywords: Ulcerative colitis; NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 inflammasome; Therapeutic strategies; Phytochemicals; Probiotics

Core Tip: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a common chronic type of inflammatory bowel disease that affects a significant number of populations. Needing to counteract the UC prevalence, attract scientists to study its pathological mechanism deeply. NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome has been observed to have a crucial role in the pathological features of UC. Targeting NLRP3 inflammasome signals with phytochemicals, plants, probiotics, and chemical agents could be promising candidates for fixing the UC problem.