Targeting CD177: A Novel Therapeutic Strategy for NLRP3-Associated Autoinflammatory Diseases.

Abstract

NLRP3-associated autoinflammatory diseases (NLRP3-AIDs) are rare autoinflammatory disorders caused by uncontrolled inflammasome activation. While IL-1β blockade is first-line therapy, many patients respond inadequately, highlighting a need for alternative strategies. Transcriptomic analysis was performed on immune cells from a patient with an NLRP3 L573W mutation. Functional validation of CD177 as a downstream effector of NLRP3 activation was conducted. A novel NLRP3 L573W knock-in mouse model was established. Correlation between CD177 expression, disease severity, neutrophilia, and tissue damage was assessed. Therapeutic efficacy of siRNA-mediated CD177 silencing was evaluated and compared with IL-1β blockade. CD177, a neutrophil-specific protein, was significantly upregulated in NLRP3-mutant cells and confirmed as a direct downstream effector of NLRP3 activation. The NLRP3 L573W knock-in mouse recapitulated human disease heterogeneity, from mild self-limited inflammation to severe multi-organ pathology. CD177 expression correlated with disease severity, neutrophilia, and tissue damage. siRNA-mediated CD177 silencing attenuated systemic inflammation, reduced neutrophil infiltration and cytokine levels (IL-1β, IL-6, TNFα), and ameliorated multi-organ damage, with effects comparable to or exceeding those of IL-1β blockade. CD177 is a non-canonical amplifier of NLRP3-driven inflammation. Targeting CD177 represents a superior therapeutic strategy for NLRP3-AIDs, including IL-1β-refractory cases.