NALP7 attenuates caspase-1-dependent IL-1β secretion by inhibiting the processing of pro-IL-1β and pro-caspase 1.12 The increased expression of NALP7 in the submucosa, but not BAL, of patients with stable COPD may act to prevent the activation of the inflammasome pathway (figure 5). This evidence concerns the gene IL1B and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.