Overactivation of the NLRP3 inflammasome causes the overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-18 and IL-1β, via the cleavage of pro-caspase-1 by NLRP3 and ASC, thereby activating downstream signaling pathways and ultimately contributing to an inflammatory cascade that leads to depression. The gene discussed is CASP1; the disease is major depressive disorder.