Abstract
While the functional importance of inflammasomes in blood-derived cell types is well established, it remains poorly understood how inflammasomes in nonhematopoietic cells contribute to mucosal immunity. Recent studies have revealed functional roles of inflammasomes - particularly NAIP/NLRC4, NLRP6, and noncanonical caspase-4 (caspase-11) - within epithelial cells of the gut in mucosal immune defense, inflammation, and tumorigenesis. Here, we review and discuss these findings in the broader context of tissue compartment-specific mucosal immunity. We propose several models whereby activities of the intestinal epithelial inflammasomes converge on mechanisms to remove compromised epithelial cells, maintain host-microbiota mutualism, and communicate with immune cells of the underlying lamina propria.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 442-50 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | Trends in Immunology |
Volume | 36 |
Issue number | 8 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Aug 2015 |
Keywords
- Animals
- Humans
- Immunity, Mucosal
- Inflammasomes
- Intestinal Mucosa
- Journal Article
- Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
- Review