The seminar titled “NLR Proteins in Health and Disease,” delivered at our center by Prof. Dr. Nesrin Erkol from the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics at Boğaziçi University, was held on 25 March 2026, with strong interest and participation.

In the seminar, it was emphasized that NOD-like receptor (NLR) proteins, which are key components of the innate immune system, function as intracellular “danger sensors” and play a central role in shaping immune responses, particularly through inflammasome formation. It was highlighted that activation of various NLR family members, especially NLRP3, leads to caspase-1 activation and the production of IL-1β/IL-18, providing protection against infections. It was also noted that dysregulation of this system may underlie chronic inflammation and autoinflammatory diseases.

In the context of disease, the relationship of NLR proteins with autoinflammatory conditions such as Behçet’s disease and certain types of cancer was discussed. Prof. Dr. Erkol emphasized the “dual nature” of the NLR system, noting that while these proteins play a critical role in pathogen defense, their misregulation can also trigger disease development.

Prof. Dr. Erkol also referred to the Vaccizone project, which she coordinates, and shared insights into how the immune system can be more effectively directed in the development of next-generation vaccines.

We would like to thank Prof. Dr. Nesrin Erkol for her valuable seminar and invite readers to learn more about her work via the provided link.
https://mbg.bogazici.edu.tr/tr/nesrin-erkol-0