A patent review of NLRP3 inhibitors for inflammatory diseases (2023-present)

INTRODUCTION: With increasing knowledge and understanding of the molecular mechanisms of the NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome and its role in inflammatory diseases, NLRP3 has emerged as a highly druggable target. This is reflected in extensive efforts to develop small molecule NLRP3 inhibitors with diverse chemical scaffolds and mechanisms of action (MOAs), aimed to achieve disease intervention. AREAS COVERED: The current review summarizes recent patents on NLRP3 inhibitor development from 2023 to present. In addition, the molecular mechanisms underlying NLRP3 activation and its involvement in inflammatory diseases were also discussed. The second objective is to get a comprehensive analysis of currently available patent applications and priority filings on NLRP3-targeted therapies with emphasis on new indications. EXPERT OPINION: This review provides an organized, systematic, and coherent overview of recent progress in NLRP3-targeted therapeutics and highlights the increasing diversity of chemical classes of new NLRP3 inhibitors, as well as the overall trend toward increased strategic activity across patent jurisdictions and territories.