Immune mechanisms and therapeutic potential of CpG oligodeoxynucleotides.
Unmethylated CpG motifs in bacterial DNA and synthetic oligodeoxynucleotides activate immune cells that express Toll-like Receptor 9. Activation through this receptor triggers cellular signaling that leads to production of a proinflammatory and a Th1-type, antigen-specific immune response. The immunostimulatory effects of CpG oligodeoxynucleotides confer protection against infectious disease, allergy and cancer in animal models, and clinical trials have been initiated. However, CpG oligodeoxynucleotides may exacerbate disease in some situations. We will review current concepts in the mechanisms of activating Toll-like Receptor 9 with CpG oligodeoxynucleotides and highlight opportunities for using large animal models to better determine the mechanisms of action.
Wilson
Heather L
HL
Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.
Dar
Arshud
A
Napper
Scott K
SK
Marianela Lopez
A
A
Babiuk
Lorne A
LA
Mutwiri
George K
GK
D000276:Adjuvants, Immunologic / Q000235:genetics / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000818:Animals; D018899:CpG Islands / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D007167:Immunotherapy / Q000379:methods; D009841:Oligonucleotides / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology* / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D051217:Toll-Like Receptor 9 / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology
D000276:Adjuvants, Immunologic; D009841:Oligonucleotides; D051217:Toll-Like Receptor 9