Involved in innate immunity and the inflammatory response. Interacts with several components of the inflammasome complex, a large oligomeric structure which recruits and activates CASP1 and ultimately induces maturation of cytokines such as IL1B. However, the exact role of MEFV in the inflammatory pathway is uncertain as contradictory effects on IL1B processing have been reported in different experimental systems. Has been shown to activate IL1B production (PubMed:16037825). Has also been shown to inhibit IL1B production (PubMed:16785446, PubMed:17431422). Also required for PSTPIP1-induced PYCARD oligomerization and for formation of pyroptosomes, large supramolecular structures composed of oligomerized PYCARD dimers which form prior to inflammatory apoptosis. Can reduce PYCARD-induced apoptosis. Recruits PSTPIP1 to pyroptosomes, and required for PSTPIP1 oligomerization.
