Caspase activation and recruitment domain found in Human ASC, NALP1, and similar proteins
Caspase activation and recruitment domain (CARD) similar to those found in human ASC (Apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD) and NALP1 (CARD7, NLRP1). ASC, an adaptor molecule, and NALP1, a member of the Nod-like receptor (NLR) family, are involved in the assembly of the 'inflammasome', a multiprotein platform, which is responsible for caspase-1 activation and regulation of IL-1beta maturation. In general, CARDs are death domains (DDs) associated with caspases. They are known to be important in the signaling pathways for apoptosis, inflammation and host-defense mechanisms. DDs are protein-protein interaction domains found in a variety of domain architectures. Their common feature is that they form homodimers by self-association or heterodimers by associating with other members of the DD superfamily including PYRIN and DED (Death Effector Domain). They serve as adaptors in signaling pathways and can recruit other proteins into signaling complexes.
Jiyao W et al.(2023). "The conserved domain database in 2023.",