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DAF as a therapeutic target for steroid hormones: implications for host-pathogen interactions
Bogdan Nowicki1, Stella Nowicki
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Meharry Medical College, 1005 Dr DB Todd Jr. Bulvd, Nashville, TN 37208, USA. bnowicki@mmc.edu
Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology
|February 14, 2013
Summary
This study explores the role of Decay Accelerating Factor (DAF/CD55) in various physiological and pathological conditions, including infections. Understanding DAF regulation by steroid hormones is key to developing new therapeutic strategies.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Decay Accelerating Factor (DAF/CD55) is crucial for physiological functions like tissue protection and anti-inflammation.
- DAF/CD55 plays a role in pregnancy and regulates immune cell transmigration.
- Pathogens exploit DAF/CD55 in chronic infections, impacting host-pathogen interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize knowledge on steroid hormones, DAF expression, and therapeutic implications.
- To explore DAF's role in infection and host-pathogen interactions.
- To investigate regulatory mechanisms of DAF expression by steroid hormones.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing research on DAF, steroid hormones, and infections.
- Analysis of DAF's physiological functions and pathological exploitation by pathogens.
- Examination of regulatory pathways involving estrogen, progesterone, and corticosteroids.
Main Results:
- DAF/CD55 has protective roles against complement injury and inflammation.
- Steroid hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and corticosteroids may regulate DAF expression.
- Pathogens such as Dr+ E. coli utilize DAF/CD55 for internalization and persistence.
Conclusions:
- DAF/CD55 is a critical factor in both host defense and pathogen evasion.
- Understanding steroid hormone regulation of DAF is vital for therapeutic development.
- Targeting DAF expression offers potential strategies for treating infections and inflammatory diseases.
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