Toll-like receptors in defense and damage of the central nervous system.
Members of the Toll-like receptor (TLR) family play critical roles as regulators of innate and adaptive immune responses. TLRs function by recognizing diverse molecular patterns on the surface of invading pathogens. In the brain, microglial cells generate neuroimmune responses through production of proinflammatory mediators. The upregulation of cytokines and chemokines in response to microbial products and other stimuli has both beneficial and deleterious effects. Emerging evidence demonstrates a central role for TLRs expressed on microglia as a pivotal factor in generating these neuroimmune responses. Therefore, understanding the basis of TLR signaling in producing these responses may provide insights into how activated microglia attempt to strike a balance between defense against invading pathogens and inflicting irreparable brain damage. These insights may lead to innovative therapies for CNS infections and neuroinflammatory diseases based on the modulation of microglial cell activation through TLR signaling.
Neuroimmunology Laboratory, Center for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Translational Research, University of Minnesota Medical School, 2001 6th Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
Rajagopal N
RN
Aravalli
Phillip K
PK
Peterson
James R
JR
Lokensgard
D000818:Animals; D002490:Central Nervous System / Q000166:cytology / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology; D002493:Central Nervous System Diseases / Q000276:immunology* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D015398:Signal Transduction / Q000276:immunology; D051193:Toll-Like Receptors / Q000502:physiology*
D051193:Toll-Like Receptors