Recombinant Human NLRC4 protein (His-DHFR tag N-Terminus)

Supplementary information

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

The NLRC4 also known as CARD12 or IPAF is an intracellular protein that plays an important role in inflammation and immune responses. It belongs to the NOD-like receptor (NLR) family specifically the NLRC subfamily and contains a caspase activation and recruitment domain (CARD). NLRC4 weighs approximately 120 kDa and is expressed abundantly in macrophages and dendritic cells. It participates mechanically by recognizing cytosolic pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and activating the immune response.

Biological function summary

NLRC4 forms part of the inflammasome complex which is a multi-protein unit essential for innate immunity. This protein helps detect and respond to bacterial components enabling the activation of caspase-1. Caspase-1 then processes pro-inflammatory cytokines like interleukin-1β and interleukin-18 into their active forms. This mechanism helps defend against bacterial infections and maintain tissue homeostasis.

Pathways

NLRC4 functions within the inflammasome activation pathway and intersects with autophagy processes. It facilitates the detection of intracellular flagellin through its interaction with the NAIP proteins leading to the activation of caspase-1. NLRC4's activity results in inflammasome assembly which links it to both the innate immune response and cell death pathways. This association positions it near proteins such as ASC which acts as an adapter molecule in inflammasomes.

NLRC4 is linked to autoinflammatory conditions and gastrointestinal diseases. Mutations or dysregulation in NLRC4 may result in the development of autoinflammatory syndromes characterized by recurrent fever and systemic inflammation. These conditions associate with other proteins in the inflammasome complex like NLRP3 which also mediates inflammatory responses. Furthermore disturbances in NLRC4 function can contribute to digestive system diseases emphasizing its relevance in maintaining balanced immune activity.