NLRP3 inflammasome

Understand the connection

NLRP3 is an intracellular danger sensor, rather than a circulating cytokine. It can assemble an inflammasome, a protein complex involved in activating inflammatory responses.

Follow the pathway

Dr. Purser describes the priming and activation steps, caspase-1, IL-1 beta, and IL-18. He connects these steps with gout, metabolic inflammation, and oxidative stress. Different triggers can activate the same pathway.

Bring these questions to your visit

Ask which result is being discussed: a genetic variant, a measured protein level, or a diagnosed condition. How does it fit with your symptoms and other tests? Dr. Purser discusses antioxidant support alongside these pathways; ask how any supplement would fit with your medicines and care plan.