NLRP3 is essential for crystal-induced IL-1β secretion in vitro; however, the requirement for NLRP3 is only partial in mouse models of arthritis (92, 94) as shown in NLRP3-deficient mice where various crystals such as silica and alum still induce macrophage cell death and inflammation (discussed below). The gene discussed is NLRP3; the disease is Arthritis.