1. Definition
Nod-like receptors (NLRs) are a class of intracellular pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) that play a crucial role in the innate immune system. They detect pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) within the cytoplasm of cells. Upon recognition of these molecular patterns, NLRs initiate immune responses by activating signaling pathways that lead to inflammation, including the formation of inflammasomes, which contribute to the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β and IL-18.