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). The gene discussed is NLRP7; the disease is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.