pattern recognition receptor activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Combining with a pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP), a structure conserved among microbial species to initiate an innate immune response. [GOC:ar, GOC:bf]

Pattern recognition receptor (PRR) activity is a crucial component of the innate immune system, playing a pivotal role in detecting and responding to invading pathogens and danger signals. PRRs are expressed on the surface of various immune cells, such as macrophages, neutrophils, dendritic cells, and epithelial cells. They recognize highly conserved molecular patterns associated with pathogens, known as pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) released from damaged host cells.

Upon recognition of these patterns, PRRs trigger a cascade of intracellular signaling events that lead to the activation of immune responses. These responses can include the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, the activation of phagocytosis, the induction of antimicrobial mechanisms, and the initiation of adaptive immune responses.

PRRs are classified into several families, each with its unique molecular structure and recognition specificity. The main families include:

- Toll-like receptors (TLRs): TLRs are transmembrane proteins that recognize a wide range of PAMPs and DAMPs, including bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS), viral double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), and fungal mannans.

- C-type lectin receptors (CLRs): CLRs are carbohydrate-binding proteins that recognize fungal cell wall components, such as mannose and glucan.

- NOD-like receptors (NLRs): NLRs are cytoplasmic proteins that detect intracellular PAMPs and DAMPs, such as bacterial peptidoglycans and intracellular pathogens.

- RIG-I-like receptors (RLRs): RLRs are cytoplasmic proteins that recognize viral RNA.

- AIM2-like receptors (ALRs): ALRs are cytoplasmic proteins that detect bacterial DNA.

The molecular mechanisms underlying PRR activation are complex and involve interactions with adaptor proteins, kinases, and transcription factors. These interactions result in the activation of downstream signaling pathways, such as the NF-κB and MAPK pathways, which ultimately lead to the production of inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and other immune effector molecules.

In summary, PRR activity is a critical first line of defense against infection and injury, ensuring rapid recognition and response to invading pathogens and cellular damage. The diverse family of PRRs provides a broad spectrum of recognition capabilities, enabling the immune system to effectively detect and combat a wide range of threats.'
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Proteins (6)

Compounds (25)