inflammasome activation
The assembly and triggering of multiprotein complexes that process inflammatory cytokines in response to cellular stress or pathogens.
Full Definition
Inflammasome activation refers to the formation and triggering of large cytoplasmic protein complexes that serve as platforms for processing pro-inflammatory cytokines, particularly IL-1β and IL-18. In the CNS, inflammasome activation occurs primarily in microglia and astrocytes in response to damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) or pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). This process involves the oligomerization of pattern recognition receptors with adaptor proteins and caspase-1, leading to cytokine maturation and pyroptotic cell death. Dysregulated inflammasome activation contributes to neuroinflammation in various neurological disorders.
Usage
Usage note: Always use as two words; 'inflammasome' should not be hyphenated to 'activation'.
In Context
- "Inflammasome activation in microglia was evident by increased caspase-1 activity and IL-1β release." — Immunology research paper
- "Therapeutic targeting of inflammasome activation showed promise in reducing neuroinflammation." — Drug development study