Mechanisms of NLRP3 inflammasome in chronic kidney disease and the effects of traditional Chinese medicines.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterized by a progressive decline of renal function, leading to multisystem problems and finally culminating in end-stage renal disease (ESRD). It has progressively emerged as a major global health issue. The nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome contributes to the inflammatory response chiefly by facilitating the secretion of inflammatory mediators, including interleukin-1β and interleukin-18. Recent studies have underscored the significance of NLRP3 inflammasome in renal pathology that is associated with CKD. In addition, a large number of studies have shown that traditional Chinese medicines (TCMS) can regulate NLRP3 through multiple targets and pathways, demonstrating significant potential in the treatment of CKD. These natural products offer advantages such as low costs and minimal side effects, making them a viable supplement or alternative to traditional treatment approaches for CKD. A literature review approach was employed to systematically search databases including Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and PubMed. Search keywords comprised 'Chronic kidney disease', 'NLRP3 inflammasome', 'traditional Chinese medicine', and their relevant synonyms/combinations. Through reviewing abstracts and full texts, the relationships between CKD and NLRP3 inflammasome, as well as the pharmacological mechanisms of TCMS, were classified and summarized. This study also explores the therapeutic potential of TCMS in regulating NLRP3 inflammasome. These findings might offer prospective diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for targeted or supplementary therapy of CKD.