Can the Moderna (mRNA-1273) vaccine activate the NLRP3 inflammasome?

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From the Research

NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation

The NLRP3 inflammasome is a multiprotein complex that plays a crucial role in regulating the innate immune system and inflammatory signaling. It can be activated by various stimuli, including microbial infections, cellular damage, and other environmental factors.

Mechanism of Activation

  • The NLRP3 inflammasome is activated by the recognition of pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) 1.
  • The activation of NLRP3 leads to the oligomerization and activation of caspase-1, which initiates the processing and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-18 1, 2.
  • Lysosomal rupture is a critical step in the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, and it can be triggered by diverse stimuli, including microbial toxins, ATP, and particulate matter 3.

Activation by RNA

  • Bacterial RNA, including mRNA, tRNA, and rRNA, can activate the NLRP3 inflammasome in human macrophages 4.
  • RNA viruses and their components can also activate the NLRP3 inflammasome, leading to the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines 5.
  • The Moderna (mRNA-1273) vaccine, which uses mRNA as its active ingredient, may have the potential to activate the NLRP3 inflammasome, although this has not been directly studied.

Regulation of Activation

  • The NLRP3 inflammasome is regulated by post-translational modifications and interacting partners of NLRP3 2.
  • The activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome can be inhibited by certain viruses, which use virus-encoded proteins to suppress inflammation activation 5.

References

2
Research

The NLRP3 Inflammasome: An Overview of Mechanisms of Activation and Regulation.

International journal of molecular sciences, 2019

4
Research

Human NLRP3 inflammasome senses multiple types of bacterial RNAs.

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 2014

5
Research

Activation and Inhibition of the NLRP3 Inflammasome by RNA Viruses.

Journal of inflammation research, 2021

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Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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