Toll-like receptor (intestinal epithelial cell) (TLR (intestinal epithelial cell))

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are a class of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) expressed on the surface and within intestinal epithelial cells. They detect microbial components (such as lipopolysaccharide, flagellin, nucleic acids) derived from commensal and pathogenic microbes. Upon recognition, they initiate intracellular signaling pathways leading to cytokine and chemokine expression, epithelial cell proliferation, and antimicrobial peptide production, playing crucial roles in maintaining barrier homeostasis and mucosal immunity. TLR signaling is tightly regulated to maintain tolerance to commensals while safeguarding against pathogens; dysregulation is implicated in inflammatory bowel disease and other chronic inflammatory conditions of the gut.

Other names

TLR (intestinal epithelial cell)Toll-like receptor (IEC)PRR-TLR (pattern recognition receptor - toll-like receptor)Pattern recognition receptor (PRR, but only when referring specifically to TLRs)Microbe-sensing receptors (context-dependent)

Agonists: Activate TLR signaling, inducing host defense genes and cytokine production. Antagonists: Block TLR-mediated inflammation or immune activation.