Nod-like receptor protein 3 inflammasome in head-and-neck cancer

Activation of inflammasomes has a decisive role in host defense mechanism against pathogens and other intracellular risk factors, but recently, it has been revealed that they play a significant role in the pathogenesis of several diseases, including cancer. Nod-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, the best-studied inflammasome, has contrasting roles in cancer development and progressions. In head-and-neck cancers, the upregulated level of NLRP3 promotes tumor progression. The main objective of this review is to provide current knowledge on the involvement of NLRP3 inflammasome in head-and-neck cancers. Deeper understanding of the biology of this dynamic protein complex provides new scope for the development of more effective anticancer therapies.