From the Research
Yes, nattokinase appears to inhibit NLRP3 inflammasome activation, as evidenced by a recent study published in 2024 1. Nattokinase is an enzyme derived from fermented soybeans (natto) that has shown anti-inflammatory properties. Research indicates it can suppress the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, a key component of the innate immune system involved in inflammatory responses. The study found that nattokinase treatment induced autophagy and inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome and necroptosis in endothelial cells 1. Furthermore, the inhibition of SRF or THBS1 by siRNA suppressed autophagy and enhanced the NLRP3 inflammasome and necroptosis, suggesting that nattokinase's effects on SRF and THBS1 are crucial for its anti-inflammatory properties. While the optimal dosing for NLRP3 inhibition specifically has not been firmly established, the typical recommended dose of nattokinase supplements is 100-200 mg per day, taken on an empty stomach. Nattokinase likely inhibits NLRP3 through multiple mechanisms, including reducing oxidative stress, modulating NF-κB signaling pathways, and potentially direct enzyme interactions. This inflammasome inhibition may contribute to nattokinase's observed cardiovascular and neuroprotective benefits. Other studies have also investigated the inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome, including the discovery of alantolactone as a naturally occurring NLRP3 inhibitor 2 and the development of pharmacological inhibitors of the NLRP3 inflammasome 3, 4, 5. However, the most recent and highest-quality study on nattokinase's effects on NLRP3 inflammasome activation is the 2024 study published in the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules 1. Key points to consider when using nattokinase include:
- Nattokinase has blood-thinning effects, so people on anticoagulant medications or with bleeding disorders should consult a doctor before use.
- It's also advisable to stop taking nattokinase at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery.
- The optimal dosing for NLRP3 inhibition specifically has not been firmly established, and more research is needed to determine the most effective dose.