Innate immune receptors – pathway-level modulation

Innate immune receptors – pathway-level modulation refers to the therapeutic strategy of targeting pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and their associated signaling networks to regulate the body's first line of defense [Nature Reviews Drug Discovery]. These receptors, including Toll-like receptors (TLRs), NOD-like receptors (NLRs), and the cGAS-STING pathway, detect pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) [Journal of Clinical Investigation]. In oncology, agonists are often used to stimulate an anti-tumor immune response by converting 'cold' tumors into 'hot' tumors through the induction of type I interferons and pro-inflammatory cytokines [Frontiers in Immunology]. Conversely, in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, antagonists or inhibitors of downstream signaling components like IRAK4 or JAK kinases are employed to dampen overactive immune responses [Nature Reviews Rheumatology]. This broad approach encompasses a variety of molecular targets across different cellular compartments, aiming to fine-tune the innate immune system's activity for therapeutic benefit [Cell].

Other names

Pattern recognition receptor signalingPRR pathway modulationInnate immune signaling pathwaysInnate immune system modulation

Modulation of innate immune responses through the activation or inhibition of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and their downstream signaling cascades, such as the NF-κB, IRF, and MAPK pathways, to induce or suppress cytokine production and cellular activation [Nature Reviews Drug Discovery].