NLRP3 and systemic lupus erythematosus: Several mouse models (NZB/WF1, MLR/lpr, BXSB/Yaa, and pristane-induced) and some data in humans provided demonstration of the role of innate immunity and especially of P2X7R-NLRP3 inflammasome, in SLE pathogenesis (Turner et al., 2006; Zhao et al., 2013).