Targeting the NLRP3 Inflammasome: Novel Inhibitors for Cardiovascular Disease Management

The innate immune system is the first line of defense against pathogens and intracellular danger signals, providing a rapid non-specific response to eliminate the infection and maintain tissue homeostasis. NLRP3 inflammasome as a critical component of the innate immune system plays a pivotal role in the inflammatory response. Many research studies have highlighted the implication of NLRP3 in the pathogenesis of various cardiovascular diseases including atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, hypertension and heart failure. Activation of NLRP3 elicits a robust inflammatory response represented in proteolytic cleavage and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β and IL-18, which contribute to the progression of vascular inflammation and myocardial damage. This review aims to comprehensively examine the current understanding of NLRP3 inflammasome activation in cardiovascular diseases, exploring the molecular mechanisms underlying its role in inflammation and tissue injury. Furthermore, we will discuss the evolution of NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitors, focusing on the most novel small synthetic inhibitors of NLRP3 protein and phytoestrogens targeting NLRP3, providing a thorough overview of the potential of targeting NLRP3 as a therapeutic strategy for cardiovascular disease management.