NLRP3 and major depressive disorder: The effects of MLT on the following factors were examined: (1) pain severity, (2) anxiety and depression, (3) activation of NF-κB/NLRP3 axis components (NF-κB, NLRP3, ASC, and Casp-1); secretion of cytokines (IL-1β and IL-18), and (4) apoptosis and apoptotic regulatory mediators (Bax and Bcl2) in the HC and PFC.