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An evolutionary perspective on C-type lectins in infection and immunity
Linda M van den Berg1, Sonja I Gringhuis, Teunis B H Geijtenbeek
1Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences
|February 1, 2012
Summary
Pathogens coevolve with the human immune system, exploiting C-type lectins to evade detection. This review details how C-type lectins in infections like HIV-1, mycobacteria, and Candida impact host-pathogen dynamics.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Host-pathogen interactions involve intricate coevolutionary mechanisms.
- The human immune system, comprising innate and adaptive cells, combats pathogens.
- Pathogens have evolved strategies to exploit host systems for propagation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of C-type lectins in host-pathogen interactions.
- To update on C-type lectin involvement in HIV-1, mycobacterial, and Candida infections.
- To explore the coevolutionary strategies between hosts and pathogens mediated by C-type lectins.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of C-type lectin function in immunity.
- Analysis of pathogen evasion mechanisms involving C-type lectins.
- Synthesis of current understanding of host-pathogen coevolution.
Main Results:
- C-type lectins recognize diverse pathogen structures (viruses, bacteria, fungi).
- Recognition by C-type lectins on immune cells triggers signaling pathways.
- Pathogens can subvert C-type lectin recognition to evade immune responses.
Conclusions:
- C-type lectins play a dual role in host defense and pathogen manipulation.
- Understanding C-type lectin function is crucial for combating infections like HIV-1, mycobacterial, and Candida.
- Coevolution drives complex interactions between C-type lectins and pathogens.
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