Detection of and response to microbial infections by the immune system depends largely on
a family of pattern-recognition receptors called Toll-like receptors (TLRs). These receptors
recognize conserved molecular products derived from various classes of pathogens,
including Gram-positive and-negative bacteria, DNA and RNA viruses, fungi and protozoa.
Recognition of ligands by TLRs leads to a series of signaling events resulting in induction of
acute responses necessary to kill the pathogen. TLRs are also responsible for the induction …