Human NAIP and mouse NAIP1 recognize bacterial type III secretion needle protein for inflammasome activation

Our analyses uncover general immunogenic activity of bacterial T3SS needle protein and identify human NAIP and mouse NAIP1 as cytosolic innate immune sensors of bacterial T3SS needle protein. These results, together with our previous studies, establish a complete framework for understanding NLRC4-mediated detection of bacterial virulence products by the NAIP family inflammasome receptors. The inflammasome-stimulating activity of bacterial T3SS needle proteins and the difference between mouse and human NAIP inflammasome also may provide guidance in vaccine development.