Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and mannan-binding lectin (MBL): On constant alert in a hostile environment

作者：Bergman Ingrid Maria^*

来源：Upsala Journal of Medical Sciences, 2011, 116(2): 90-99.

DOI：10.3109/03009734.2010.545494

• Innate immunity
• MBL
• molecular biology
• positive selection
• recognition
• TLRs

In the beginning were neither B cells nor T cells nor antibodies, but innate immune defense alone. The primary functional theme of innate immunity is the distinction between self and non-self, which is maintained by a vast number of cellular and subcellular components. In this context, the immense importance of the Toll-like receptors (TLRs) is well established. Positive (Darwinian) selection seems to be acting on the ligand-binding domains of these molecules, suggesting a selection pattern similar to that previously observed in the MHC proteins. In sharp contrast to TLRs, the biological significance of mannan-binding lectin (MBL) is controversial, and, concerning humans, it has been suggested that low concentration of MBL in serum represents a selective advantage. In this mini-review, based on a doctoral thesis, evolutionary aspects of TLRs and MBL are discussed.

• 出版日期2011-5