As well-increased gene expression of NLRP3, IL-1β, and IL-18 has been found in PBMCs from COPD patients compared to smokers (92), while no differences of NLRP3, IL-1β, and IL-18 in bronchial epithelial were observed in severe stable COPD patients compared to current smokers (93), see also Table 3. Here, NLRP3 is linked to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.