NALP3 (NACHT, LRR and PYD domains-containing protein 3), otherwise known as cryopyrin, is a member of the NLR (Nod-like-receptors) family. This is a pyrin-like protein, having N-terminal CARD or pyrin domains needed for homotypic protein-protein interaction, an intermediate nucleotide binding self-oligomerization NACHT domain and a C-terminal domain containing leucine-rich repeats (LRRs). NALP3 is a key component of innate immunity and its expression is restricted to immune cells and chondrocytes. It interacts with the apoptosis-associated speck-like protein PYCARD/ASC, which contains a caspase recruitment domain, and is a member of the NALP3 inflammasome complex. This complex functions as an upstream activator of NF-kappa signaling, and it plays an important role in the regulation of inflammation, the immune response, and apoptosis.