Inverse correlation between NLRP3 and TMEM176B as a possible tool for colorectal cancer progression

Purpose TMEM176B has been recently identified as a novel player in anti-cancer immune responses by negatively modulating the NLRP3 inflammasome activation in colorectal cancer (CRC). Yet, the TMEM176B/NLRP3 axis in CRC needs to be deeply investigated. Methods TMEM176B and NLRP3 expression were evaluated in CRC patients by immunohistochemistry and RT-qPCR assays. The prognostic relevance of TMEM176B and NLRP3 was determined by in silico analysis. The NLRP3 inflammasome activation in the CRC microenvironment was assessed in a peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and CRC cell line (HCT-116) spheroids co-culture assay. Results Reduced NLRP3 and increased TMEM176B expression correlates to CRC stages and poor survival. The in vitro assay showed HCT-116 cells activated NLRP3 inflammasome in PBMC. Conclusion These findings evidence the inverse correlation between NLRP3 and TMEM176B in CRC progression, suggesting them as a predictive tool.