It is composed of pro-Casp-1 protein, NLRP3, and apoptosis-associated speck-like protein (ASC).152 The sensitization of the NLRP3 inflammasome and the suppression of BDNF synthesis result in MDD.153 In our research, SD is found to reduce BDNF levels and induce depressive-like behaviors in the sorted astrocytes from GFAP-GFP transgenic mice by activating the NLRP3 inflammasome.130 NLRP3 inflammasome activation causes astrocytes to produce more IL-1β and IL-18.154,155. The gene discussed is NLRP3; the disease is major depressive disorder.