The Journal of infection
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The Journal of infection · Feb 2011
ReviewThe inflammasome regulatory pathway and infections: role in pathophysiology and clinical implications.
The innate immune system serves to generate immediate host defenses against pathogens. Advance in the mechanism of innate immunity has provided new insights into host-pathogen microbial interactions. ⋯ We summarize the current knowledge regarding the regulatory functions of the inflammasome in the pathogenesis of infections by various microbes (e.g., bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa), and discuss its potential application in a clinical setting. Understanding of the unique role of the inflammasome signaling pathway in initiating and regulating inflammation is pivotal for the development of innovative approaches to optimize management of these infections.