Toll-like receptors
Toll-like receptors
Toll-like receptors (TLR) /ˈtoʊl laɪk rɪˈsɛptərz/ are a class of proteins that play a key role in the Innate immune system. They are single, membrane-spanning, non-catalytic receptors usually expressed in Sentinel cells such as macrophages and dendritic cells, that recognize structurally conserved molecules derived from microbes.
Etymology
The name "Toll-like receptor" originates from the similarity these receptors share with the protein coded by the Toll gene identified in Drosophila melanogaster. The term "Toll" in German means "amazing" or "great", reflecting the crucial role this gene plays in Drosophila development and immunity.
Function
Once these microbes have breached physical barriers such as the skin or intestinal tract mucosa, they are recognized by TLRs, which activate immune cell responses. The TLRs include TLR1, TLR2, TLR3, TLR4, TLR5, TLR6, TLR7, TLR8, TLR9, TLR10, TLR11, TLR12, and TLR13, though the latter three are not found in humans.
Related Terms
- Innate immune system: The part of the immune system that is non-specific and immediate defense mechanism against pathogens.
- Sentinel cells: Cells that are part of the immune system and provide an early warning of microbial invasion.
- Drosophila melanogaster: A species of fly (the fruit fly) that is commonly used in genetic experiments.
- Macrophages: A type of white blood cell that engulfs and digests cellular debris, foreign substances, microbes, and cancer cells.
- Dendritic cells: Antigen-presenting cells (also known as accessory cells) of the mammalian immune system.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Toll-like receptors
- Wikipedia's article - Toll-like receptors
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