Role of NLRP3 Inflammasomes in Disorders of the Children’s Digestive System

Background/Objectives: This review article highlights the role of NLRP3 inflammasomes in various gastrointestinal and hepatic disorders in the pediatric age group. NLRP3 inflammasomes are one of the principal intracellular innate immune sensors. During inflammation, there is production of molecules as caspase-1, and the release of IL-1β and IL-18. The NLRP3 inflammasome participated in the preservation of intestinal homeostasis and mucosal immune response. The objective is to evaluate the published articles related to the role of NLRP3 inflammasome in common pediatric gastrointestinal and hepatic disorders, to identify the future perspective regarding its possible therapeutic values. Methods: Search the Medline for the NLRP3 Inflammasomes and disorders of the digestive system during childhood. Results: Although the majority of articles were related to adults' various disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and atherosclerosis, neurodevelopmental disorders such as schizophrenia. A few published data related to NLRP3 roles in the pediatric age group: autism, rheumatoid arthritis, and other autoimmune diseases, as well as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and hepatic infection. Some research demonstrated that the NLRP3 inflammasome has a protective role; however, it also has a pathogenic function. Conclusion: This review approached the comprehensive role of inflammasome NLRP3 in the most common pediatric and neonatal gastrointestinal and hepatic diseases, including clinical and experimental studies as well as the pharmacological inhibitors for NLRP3 inflammasome, which may provide future therapy of GIT problems as IBD.