The different faces of the NLRP3 inflammasome in cutaneous Leishmaniasis: A review

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a vector-borne parasitic disease caused by Protozoa of the genus Leishmania. Clinical manifestations of this disease are the result of a complex interplay of diverse factors, including the genetic background and the immune status of the host. Understanding the impact of these factors on the CL pathology may provide new targets to manage the infection and improve clinical outcome. The NLRP3 inflammasome, an innate immune complex of several cell types, seems to be involved in the CL physiopathology. Current studies of its role show contradictory effects of this complex on the evolution of Leishmania infection in mice and humans. In this review, we discuss the data regarding different roles of the NLRP3 inflammasome in murine and human CL.

Automated summary

Cutaneous leishmaniasis is a vector-borne parasitic disease caused by the Protozoa of the genus Leishmania, with its pathology influenced by the host's genetic background and immune status. The NLRP3 inflammasome appears to play a role in the disease's pathophysiology, although current studies show contradictory effects on the evolution of Leishmania infection in mice and humans.