To evaluate the transcription pattern of Nod-like receptors (NLRs), the intracellular sensors, to detect danger signals in murine eyes with experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU).

EAU was induced in B6 (C57BL/6) mice by subcutaneous injection of human interphotoreceptor retinoid binding protein and intraperitoneal injection of pertussis toxin. At 1, 2, and 3 weeks post-immunization, the eyeballs were extracted and subjected to histological and molecular assays using real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.

The levels of nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain, Leucine rich Repeat and Pyrin domain 1 (NLRP1), NLRP3, nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-containing protein 1 (NOD1), and NOD2 transcripts were increased at 2 weeks and gradually reduced thereafter. Notably, NLRP3 showed the highest expression in the eyes with EAU. Similarly, the transcript level of pro-inflammatory cytokine, interleukin-1β, increased and reached a peak at 2 weeks post-immunization. The retinal structure was severely damaged by inflammation at 3 weeks post-immunization.

Among NLRs, NLRP3 may induce inflammation in eyes after EAU immunization.