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Activation of the NLRC4 inflammasome is crucial for defense against bacterial species that have flagellin or the type III secretion system (T3SS). We have discovered the role of interferon regulatory factor 8 (IRF8) in mediating NLRC4 inflammasome activation. IRF8 is required for the transcription of genes encoding NAIPs, thereby enabling cellular detection of flagellin or T3SS proteins. In vivo, IRF8 is important for NLRC4 inflammasome–dependent cytokine production, bacterial clearance, and ultimately, host survival. By introducing IRF8 as a player in inflammasome regulation, our study provides a new perspective on that process.