NLRP3 and systemic lupus erythematosus: This study demonstrated that NEK7 positively activates NLRP3 in PBMCs from patients with SLE, and that low expression of NLRP3 might be related to the low expression of NEK7. The expression of the NEK7–NLRP3 complex could be involved in the pathogenesis of SLE and LN as a protective factor; moreover, this complex might represent a new target for the treatment of SLE.