Inflammasomes in carcinogenesis and anticancer immune responses

Nat Immunol. 2012 Mar 18;13(4):343-51. doi: 10.1038/ni.2224.

Abstract

In the complex interplay between malignant cells and their microenvironment, caspase-1 activation complexes (inflammasomes) have contrasting roles. Inflammasomes may operate at the cell-autonomous level to eliminate malignant precursors through programmed cell death or, conversely, may stimulate the production of trophic factors for cancer cells and their stroma. In inflammatory cells, caspase-1 activation can fuel a cycle that leads to sterile inflammation and carcinogenesis, whereas in antigen-presenting cells, inflammasomes can stimulate anticancer immune responses. The inhibition of inflammasomes or neutralization of their products, mainly interleukin 1β (IL-1β) and IL-18, has profound effects on carcinogenesis and tumor progression. Thus, inflammasomes are promising therapeutic targets in cancer-related clinical conditions. Here we discuss present and future indications for the clinical use of inflammasome inhibitors.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Immunologic Surveillance / immunology
  • Inflammasomes / immunology*
  • Neoplasms / immunology*

Substances

  • Inflammasomes