NLRP1, a regulator of innate immunity associated with vitiligo

Pigment Cell Melanoma Res. 2012 Jan;25(1):5-8. doi: 10.1111/j.1755-148X.2011.00942.x.

Abstract

Some familial forms of the dermatological condition vitiligo have recently been linked to polymorphisms in the innate immunity gene, NLRP1. Here, we review what is currently known about the mechanisms that regulate activation of the NLRP1 protein and the downstream effects of NLRP1 on pathways impacting inflammation and apoptosis. How polymorphic variants of the NLRP1 gene contribute to the pathogenesis of vitiligo remains mysterious, requiring further investigation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing / deficiency
  • Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing / genetics
  • Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing / physiology*
  • Animals
  • Apoptosis Regulatory Proteins / deficiency
  • Apoptosis Regulatory Proteins / genetics
  • Apoptosis Regulatory Proteins / physiology*
  • Caspases / metabolism
  • Enzyme Activation
  • Humans
  • Immunity, Innate / genetics*
  • Mice
  • Multigene Family
  • NLR Proteins
  • Polymorphism, Genetic
  • Vitiligo / genetics*
  • Vitiligo / immunology
  • Vitiligo / physiopathology

Substances

  • Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing
  • Apoptosis Regulatory Proteins
  • NLR Proteins
  • NLRP1 protein, human
  • Caspases