Our Thoughts
The Rip3-MLKL interection has a key role in formation of assembly of necrosome and is required for necrosome translocation to initiate necroptosis; thus, this interaction has relevance of functional to evolutionary protection. The sequence of the RIP3-MLKL interaction is not the same in human as in mouse, because of the differences in phosphorylation sites of this interaction. Therefore, the discovery of MLKL is a significant step of medical breakthrough; nevertheless, the outcomes of the Rip3-MLKL interaction is not currently clear in humans.
Since MLKL is essential for Necrosome formation it makes for an excellent new target for drugs in the treatment of Inflammatory diseases. The treatment of these disorders is currently insufficient, particularly since this inflammation is associated with chronic pain. Any new targets for anti-inflammtory treatments can be considered breakthroughs in the treatment of these disorders. Rheumatoid Arthritis is a common disease suffered by the elderly and its treatment is of extreme importance, particularly in Australia where our ageing population is likely to require effective treatments for this disorder.