Abstract: The depletion of CD₄⁺T cells is a hallmark pathological feature of Human Immunodeficiency Virus （HIV） infection and a key factor contributing to the development of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome （AIDS）. However, the mechanisms underlying this depletion remain incompletely elucidated. Meanwhile, although combined Antiretroviral Therapy （cART） can effectively suppress HIV replication, alleviate immune dysfunction and reduce mortality, it fails to eradicate the viral reservoir in the body. Furthermore, long-term medication is associated with issues such as drug resistance and adverse reactions. Consequently, the development of novel therapeutic strategies for HIV/AIDS remains an urgent priority. NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain-associated protein 3 （NLRP3 inflammasome） plays a crucial regulatory role in the depletion of CD₄⁺T cells and the progression of HIV/AIDS, and precise intervention targeting it holds promise as a new therapeutic target. This study systematically summarizes the activation mechanisms and functional effects of the NLRP3 inflammasome at different stages of HIV/AIDS, aiming to provide a theoretical basis for identifying potential therapeutic targets and expanding intervention strategies for HIV/AIDS.