Article
Is the inflammasome relevant for epithelial cell function
Microbes and Infection
ORCiD
David M. Ojcius: 0000-0003-1461-4495
Department
Biomedical Sciences
Document Type
Article
DOI
10.1016/j.micinf.2015.10.007
Publication Date
2-1-2016
Abstract
Inflammasomes are intracellular protein complexes that sense microbial components and damage of infected cells. Following activation by molecules released by pathogens or injured cells, inflammasomes activate caspase-1, allowing secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-18 from innate immune cells. Inflammasomes are also expressed in epithelial cells, where their function has attracted less attention. Nonetheless, depending on the tissue, epithelial inflammasomes can mediate inflammation, wound healing, and pain sensitivity. We review here recent findings on inflammasomes found in epithelial tissues, highlighting the importance of these protein complexes in the response of epithelial tissues to microbial infections.
Citation Information
P. T. Santana, J. Martel, H. C. Lai, J. L. Perfettini, et al.. "Is the inflammasome relevant for epithelial cell function" Microbes and Infection Vol. 18 Iss. 2 (2016) p. 93 - 101 ISSN: 1286-4579 Available at: http://works.bepress.com/david-ojcius/317/