Work

Recognition of nucleic acids by pattern‐recognition receptors and its relevance in autoimmunity

Year: 2011

Type: review

Abstract: Host cells trigger signals for innate immune responses upon recognition of conserved structures in microbial pathogens. Nucleic acids, which are critical components for inheriting genetic information in all species including pathogens, are key structures sensed by the innate immune system. The corresponding receptors for foreign nucleic acids include members of Toll-like receptors, RIG-I-like receptors, and intracellular DNA sensors. While nucleic acid recognition by these receptors is required for host defense against the pathogen, there is a potential risk to the host of self-nucleic acids recognition, thus precipitating autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases. In this review, we discuss the roles of nucleic acid-sensing receptors in guarding against pathogen invasion, discriminating between self and non-self, and contributing to autoimmunity and autoinflammatory diseases.

Source: Immunological Reviews

DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-065x.2011.01048.x

Authors: Takumi Kawasaki, Taro Kawai, Shizuo Akira

Institutions: Immunology Frontier Research Center, The University of Osaka, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, The University of Osaka, The University of Osaka

Language: English

Topic: Immune Response and Inflammation

Subfield: Immunology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: bronze

Funder: Japan Society for the Promotion of Science