An inflammasome is a multi-protein complex within the immune system that plays a crucial role in detecting pathogens and cellular damage. When activated, it triggers the production of inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1β, which help coordinate the body's response to infection or injury. Inflammasomes are primarily found in macrophages and other immune cells. They respond to various stimuli, including bacterial toxins and uric acid crystals, leading to a process called pyroptosis, which is a form of programmed cell death that helps eliminate infected or damaged cells.