Pyrin is a protein encoded by the MEFV gene, primarily found in immune cells. It plays a crucial role in regulating inflammation and the body's response to infections. Pyrin is involved in the formation of a protein complex called the inflammasome, which helps activate inflammatory responses when the body detects harmful pathogens. Mutations in the MEFV gene can lead to familial Mediterranean fever (FMF), a genetic disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of fever and inflammation. Understanding pyrin's function is essential for developing treatments for FMF and other inflammatory diseases, as it helps researchers explore how the immune system maintains balance during infections.