An inflammasome is a multi-protein complex found in immune cells that plays a crucial role in the body's response to infection and injury. It helps detect harmful stimuli, such as pathogens or cellular damage, and activates inflammatory processes. This activation leads to the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are signaling molecules that help recruit other immune cells to the site of infection or injury. Inflammasomes are essential for maintaining the balance between immune defense and inflammation. Dysregulation of inflammasome activity can contribute to various diseases, including autoimmune disorders, metabolic syndromes, and neurodegenerative diseases. Understanding inflammasomes is vital for developing new therapeutic strategies to treat these conditions.