[6] NLRP3 is expressed predominantly in macrophages and as a component of the inflammasome,[7][8]: 436  detects products of damaged cells such as extracellular ATP and crystalline uric acid.

Proteins which contain the caspase recruitment domain, CARD, have been shown to be involved in inflammation and immune response.

[14] NLRP3 belongs to the NOD-like receptor (NLR) subfamily of PRRs and NLRP3 together with the adaptor ASC protein PYCARD forms a caspase-1 activating complex known as the NLRP3 inflammasome.

NLRP3 inflammasome detects danger signals such as crystalline uric acid and extracellular ATP released by damaged cells.

[18] Mutations in the NLRP3 gene result in autoactive inflammasomes[19] and have been associated with a spectrum of dominantly inherited autoinflammatory diseases called cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome (CAPS).

[28] The NLRP3 inflammasome has garnered attention as a potential drug target for a variety of diseases underpinned by inflammation.