[TLR function in autoimmunological processes]

TLRs (Toll-like receptors) are found in many different vertebrate and invertebrate species. TLRs have important functions in cell activation of the nonspecific immune response as well as in the indirect specific immune response. These receptors recognize a broad range of exogenous and endogenous ligands. The biological importance of TLRs depends on their potential to recognize a great number of different agonists and antagonists, among them antigens of bacterial and viral origin as well as vertebrate and invertebrate autoantigens. The responsiveness of TLRs to endogenous ligands may contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases. Increasing interest is therefore directed towards understanding the effector mechanisms and signaling pathways associated with TLR activation. This leads to the discovery of new proteins associated with TLR signaling pathways. Furthermore, efforts are underway to modify the activity of TLRs by synthetic ligands. Among the factors used to modify TLR activity are short DNA fragments known as oligo-DNA. Oligo-DNA fragments are being evaluated in clinical trials as potential drugs to treat systemic lupus erythematosus.