The Interleukin-17 (IL-17) pathway plays a crucial role in the body's immune response, particularly in the defense against extracellular pathogens and in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. It involves a family of cytokines, receptors, and signaling molecules that orchestrate inflammatory responses, making it a significant target for therapeutic interventions in conditions like psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis.