The potential mechanisms underlying the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome in depression are the recognition of the pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) of danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) by toll-like receptors, K+ outward flow via the purinergic receptor P2X7R, increased intracellular Ca2+ levels, endoplasmic reticulum stress, increased reactive oxygen species generation, and autophagy dysfunction [38]. Here, NLRP3 is linked to major depressive disorder.