AS-8351 is primarily used in research settings as a selective inhibitor of the NLRP3 inflammasome, a protein complex involved in the regulation of inflammatory responses. By targeting this pathway, AS-8351 helps modulate the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, making it a valuable tool in studying inflammatory diseases. It has shown potential in preclinical models of conditions like gout, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, and atherosclerosis, where chronic inflammation plays a key role. Due to its specificity, AS-8351 is used to dissect the involvement of NLRP3 in disease mechanisms without broadly suppressing the immune system. Its application remains confined to laboratory and experimental studies, aiding the development of new anti-inflammatory therapeutics.