The Progress in the Occurrence and Treatment of NLRP3 Inflammasome in Bone and Joint Diseases

Inflammasomes play a pivotal role in the innate immune system, which regulates the activation and expression of inflammatory factors, has a profound impact on the occurrence and expression of various inflammatory diseases. In recent years, studies have demonstrated that the NLRP3 inflammasome is closely associated with many fields, such as cardiovascular diseases, metabolic disorders, and chronic diseases. Moreover, inflammatory diseases of bone and joints, which are more prevalent in the population, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, can cause substantial damage to bone and cartilage, trigger pain and even dysfunction, and reduce the quality of life. Numerous studies have shown that the pathogenesis of multiple bone diseases and arthritic diseases, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, is closely associated with the NLRP3 inflammasome. Some progress has been made in the targeted treatment of the NLRP3 inflammasome, especially for small-molecule inhibitors. These inhibitors have potential therapeutic value by inhibiting the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, thereby reducing the inflammatory response. However, the research on the feasibility, safety, and drug metabolism of these small-molecule inhibitors in clinical application is still in the exploratory stage, and further research is urgently needed. This paper aims to review the NLRP3 inflammasome structure, function and its progress in bone-related diseases and treatment. Through this paper, we hope to improve the understanding of the NLRP3 inflammasome in the development and treatment of bone diseases, so as to provide a theoretical basis for clinical practice.