Recent Developments in Immune Activation by Uric Acid Crystals

Ng, G; Chau, EMT; Shi, Yan

HERO ID

1762207

Reference Type

Journal Article

Subtype

Review

Year

2010

Language

English

PMID

20502971

HERO ID 1762207
Material Type Review
In Press No
Year 2010
Title Recent Developments in Immune Activation by Uric Acid Crystals
Authors Ng, G; Chau, EMT; Shi, Yan
Journal Archivum Immunologiae et Therapiae Experimentalis
Volume 58
Issue 4
Page Numbers 273-277
Abstract Uric acid crystals, the causative agent of gout, have recently gained widespread attention due to their role as a natural endogenous adjuvant. Uric acid crystals, first sensed extracellularly by membrane lipid alterations, are internalized and subsequently activate the NLRP3 inflammasome. Currently, various aspects of this particular novel pathway are poorly defined. This short review will focus on some recent discoveries regarding this simple crystalline structure and address areas requiring further investigation. The fact that uric acid crystals activate innate host defense mechanisms, triggering robust inflammation and immune activation, may lead to engineering potent adjuvants for future vaccines. Furthermore, the elucidation of uric acid's mechanism of inflammation may lay the foundation for other solid inflammatory structures such as silica, asbestos, and alum.
Doi 10.1007/s00005-010-0082-1
Pmid 20502971
Wosid WOS:000278810400003
Is Certified Translation No
Dupe Override No
Comments Source: Web of Science WOS:000278810400003
Is Public Yes
Language Text English
Keyword Uric acid; Gout; Adjuvant; Vaccine; Lipid sorting; NLRP3 inflammasome; Inflammation