Inflammasomes of the intestinal epithelium

While the functional importance of inflammasomes in blood-derived cell types is well established, it remains poorly understood how inflammasomes in nonhematopoietic cells contribute to mucosal immunity. Recent studies have revealed functional roles of inflammasomes – particularly NAIP/NLRC4, NLRP6, and noncanonical caspase-4 (caspase-11) – within epithelial cells of the gut in mucosal immune defense, inflammation, and tumorigenesis. Here, we review and discuss these findings in the broader context of tissue compartment-specific mucosal immunity. We propose several models whereby activities of the intestinal epithelial inflammasomes converge on mechanisms to remove compromised epithelial cells, maintain host–microbiota mutualism, and communicate with immune cells of the underlying lamina propria.