Abstract: AIM To observe the expressions of mRNA and protein levels in the process of the formation of NLRP3 and IL-1 beta in atherosclerotic plaques of Wistar rats and to explore the role of the NLRP3/IL-1 beta signaling pathway in the formation process of atherosclerosis. METHODS The model of atherosclerosis was established by vitamin D3 combined with a high fat diet. The expressions of mRNA and protein in NLRP3 and IL-1 beta were detected by real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR and Western blotting. RESULTS In Wistar rats, the expressions of RNA and protein of NLRP3 and IL-1 beta increased gradually with the prolongation of time. CONCLUSION The results of this study suggest that NLRP3/IL-1 beta may play an important role in the development of atherosclerosis in rats.