IFI16 and infection: Moreover, unlike in vitro infection of the human corneal epithelial cell line (hTCEpi) with the less-virulent strains RE, F, KOS, and KOS63, the virulent strains McKrae, 17, and KOS79 led to: (i) High levels of activated NLRP3, NLRP12, and IFI16 inflammasomes; (ii) Increased formation of ASC specks; and (iii) High levels of IL-1β and IL-18.