Targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome using Chinese herbal medicine components for the treatment of spinal cord injury

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a severe traumatic condition with increasing prevalence in developing countries. Characterized by a complex pathophysiology and a scarcity of treatment options, SCI often leads to long-term disabilities that adversely affect patients’ quality of life. A hallmark of SCI is substantial neuroinflammation and neurological damage, which may be either temporary or permanent. Inflammation is a key factor in SCI, particularly through the activation of the NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome – an essential component of the body’s innate immune response. NLRP3 inflammasome activation contributes to secondary injury following SCI by releasing pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18. Furthermore, NLRP3 activation exacerbates tissue damage and delays recovery. Pharmacological inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activation has shown potential in managing neuroinflammation, mitigating mitochondrial dysfunction, reducing the severity of spinal cord damage, and promoting neurological recovery after SCI. Recently, Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) has garnered interest as a novel therapeutic approach for SCI treatment. Various herbal compounds, including curcumin, resveratrol, and quercetin, have demonstrated the ability to target the NLRP3 inflammasome, reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines release, and protect neural tissue in SCI models. This review explores the inhibitory effects of CHM on NLRP3 inflammasome activation, highlighting the therapeutic potential of these natural compounds in improving outcomes for SCI patients. Ultimately, a deeper understanding of the interaction between NLRP3 and CHM may pave the way for innovative therapeutic strategies to enhance recovery following SCI.