By using two wild-type strains, differing in the function of the mitochondrial gene nicotinamide-nucleotide-transhydrogenase (Nnt), we found increased protein expression of Nlrp3, Aim2, Asc and Caspase-1 in VSMC of the Nnt-deficient mouse strain, along with higher levels of oxidative DNA damage and an increased incidence of AngII-induced aortic aneurysm [54]. This evidence concerns the gene NLRP3 and aortic aneurysm.