Innate immune pattern recognition receptors and innate immune cells (PRRs and Innate Immune Cells)

Innate immune pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) are a diverse group of germline-encoded host sensors that detect pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) (StatPearls, 2023). These receptors, which include Toll-like receptors (TLRs), NOD-like receptors (NLRs), and RIG-I-like receptors (RLRs), are primarily expressed by innate immune cells such as macrophages, dendritic cells, and neutrophils (Nature Reviews Immunology, 2020). Upon activation, PRRs trigger signaling cascades that lead to the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, interferons, and the activation of the adaptive immune system. In therapeutic contexts, PRRs are targeted to enhance vaccine efficacy as adjuvants, treat viral infections, or stimulate anti-tumor immunity (PubMed, 2021). Conversely, dysregulated PRR signaling is implicated in chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, making them targets for inhibitory strategies (NIH, 2022). This entry is considered a broad biological category rather than a single specific therapeutic target.

Other names

Pattern recognition receptorsPRRsInnate immune systemInnate sensorsInnate immune signaling

Drugs targeting this system typically act as agonists to stimulate innate immune responses for oncology or vaccine adjuvancy, or as antagonists/inhibitors to suppress pathological inflammation and autoimmunity (PubMed, 2021).