NLRP3 and infection: It is activated by a variety of different pathogens,6, 7, 8, 9 but also by danger molecules, such as adenosine triphosphate, uric acid, asbestos, and silica.4, 7, 10, 11 In contrast to most other PRRs activated by direct interaction with a ligand, the NLRP3 inflammasome seems to act on common sensors of cellular damage, such as potassium efflux, reactive oxygen species, lysosomal disruption, and calcium signaling,5, 11, 12 signals which are secondary to infection or cellular stress.