The immune system consists of diverse mechanisms that provide fine control and protection from external hazards and abnormally high levels of danger substances. However, high levels of psychological stress encountered in everyday life can lead to activation of the immune system and could represent a “warning” to activate biological defense mechanisms. If left unchecked, sustained stress and immune responses can lead to full-blown depression, as well as contribute to comorbid systemic illnesses. The NLRP3 inflammasome represents a possible sensor for psychological stress and is a potential target for the treatment of depression.
