Review: Progress of the NLRP3 inflammasome in tumours and perspectives for cholangiocarcinoma

The NLRP3 inflammasome is a multi-protein complex that mediates intense inflammatory responses. Its activation and function are influenced by various factors, including the recognition of pathogen-associated molecular patterns and damage-associated molecular patterns, cellular stress responses, and metabolic disorders. Recent research has extensively studied the role of the NLRP3 inflammasome in tumors. Findings indicate that tumor cells and macrophages can regulate the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, promoting tumor development and progression. Conversely, the NLRP3 inflammasome can also exhibit anti-tumor effects through immune cells, such as dendritic cells. This has led to the development of treatment strategies, creating a comprehensive treatment system that includes sensitizers for radiotherapy and chemotherapy, inhibitors of the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway, and direct targeting of the NLRP3 inflammasome.Cholangiocarcinoma is a highly invasive and heterogeneous malignant tumor. Due to its non-specific symptoms, patients often present with advanced stages of the disease, and the mortality rate continues to rise annually. A deeper exploration of the mechanisms underlying cholangiocarcinoma's occurrence and development is essential for improving diagnosis and treatment strategies. The application of multi-omics analysis in cholangiocarcinoma research lays a foundation for understanding its pathogenesis and potential treatments. This article systematically reviews the latest advancements in NLRP3 inflammasome research, including its regulatory mechanisms, role in promoting tumor development, and effects in anti-tumor immunotherapy. Additionally, by summarizing the mechanisms involved in cholangiocarcinoma, we hypothesize that the NLRP3 inflammasome may play a significant role in the occurrence and development of cholangiocarcinoma. Therefore, we conduct a multi-angle analysis of the potential relationship between the two and propose a hypothesis model. The goal of this article is to explore the role of the NLRP3 inflammasome in tumors and its potential relationship with cholangiocarcinoma, offering new insights for research on the link between cholangiocarcinoma-related inflammation and the disease itself.