Selective NLRP3 (Pyrin Domain–Containing Protein 3) Inflammasome Inhibitor Reduces Brain Injury After Intracerebral Hemorrhage

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE—: Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a devastating disease without effective treatment. As a key component of the innate immune system, the NOD-like receptor (NLR) family, NLRP3 (pyrin domain–containing protein 3) inflammasome, when activated after ICH, promotes neuroinflammation and brain edema. MCC950 is a potent, selective, small-molecule NLRP3 inhibitor that blocks NLRP3 activation at nanomolar concentrations. Here, we examined the effect of MCC950 on brain injury and inflammation in 2 models of ICH in mice. METHODS—: In mice with ICH induced by injection of autologous blood or bacterial collagenase, we determined the therapeutic potential of MCC950 and its mechanisms of neuroprotection. RESULTS—: MCC950 reduced IL-1β (interleukin-1β) production and attenuated neurodeficits and perihematomal brain edema after ICH induction by injection of either autologous blood or collagenase. In mice with autologous blood-induced ICH, the protection of MCC950 was associated with reduced leukocyte infiltration into the brain and microglial production of IL-6. MCC950 improved blood–brain barrier integrity and diminished cell death. Notably, the protective effect of MCC950 was abolished in mice depleted of either microglia or Gr-1(+) myeloid cells. CONCLUSIONS—: These results indicate that the NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitor, MCC950, attenuates brain injury and inflammation after ICH. Hence, NLRP3 inflammasome inhibition is a potential therapy for ICH that warrants further investigation.