Inflammation Pathway

The inflammation pathway is a complex network of cellular and molecular events that constitute the body’s protective response to harmful stimuli such as pathogens, damaged cells, or irritants. Its primary function is to eliminate the initial cause of cell injury, clear out necrotic cells and tissues, and initiate tissue repair. Key components include resident tissue macrophages, dendritic cells, mast cells, neutrophils, monocytes, lymphocytes, cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6), chemokines, prostaglandins, histamine, and complement system components. The pathway involves recognition of PAMPs or DAMPs by PRRs, activation of intracellular signaling cascades (NF-κB, MAPK, STAT, HIF-1α, NLRP inflammasome), mediator release, leukocyte recruitment, and resolution/repair. Dysregulation of this pathway can lead to various chronic diseases.