NAGging Hexokinase PEPs up NLRP3

Recognition of peptidoglycan is integral to detection of gram-positive bacterial pathogens. In a recent issue of Cell, Wolf et al. (2016) report that detection of the N-acetylglucosamine component of peptidoglycan by the glycolytic enzyme hexokinase activates the NLRP3 inflammasome, revealing an intriguing interplay between pathogen detection and metabolism. Recognition of peptidoglycan is integral to detection of gram-positive bacterial pathogens. In a recent issue of Cell, Wolf et al. report that detection of the N-acetylglucosamine component of peptidoglycan by the glycolytic enzyme hexokinase activates the NLRP3 inflammasome, revealing an intriguing interplay between pathogen detection and metabolism.