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Published on: November 17, 2018
Interactions between Nod-Like Receptors and Intestinal Bacteria
Marcel R de Zoete1, Richard A Flavell2
1Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine , New Haven, CT , USA.
Abstract:
Nucleotide oligomerization domain (Nod)-like Receptors (NLRs) are cytosolic sensors that mediate the activation of Caspase-1 and the subsequent processing and secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-18, as well as an inflammatory cell death termed pyroptosis. While a multitude of bacteria have been shown to activate one or more NLRs under in vitro conditions, the exact impact of NLR activation during the course of colonization, both of pathogenic and commensal nature, is less understood. In this review, we will focus on the role of intestinal NLRs during the various stages of infection with common gastrointestinal bacterial pathogens, as well as NLR function in controlling and shaping the microbiota.
Insights
Nucleotide oligomerization domain (Nod)-like Receptors (NLRs) are key sensors in the gut. This review explores their role in bacterial infections and maintaining gut microbiota balance.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Nucleotide oligomerization domain (Nod)-like Receptors (NLRs) are intracellular sensors.
- NLRs activate Caspase-1, leading to pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-18 release.
- NLRs also induce pyroptosis, a form of inflammatory cell death.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of intestinal NLRs in bacterial infections.
- To understand NLR function in controlling gut microbiota.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on NLRs and gastrointestinal bacteria.
- Analysis of NLR activation during pathogenic and commensal bacterial colonization.
Main Results:
- In vitro studies show various bacteria activate NLRs.
- The in vivo impact of NLR activation during colonization is less understood.
- NLRs play a role in host defense against pathogens and microbiota homeostasis.
Conclusions:
- Intestinal NLRs are crucial for sensing bacterial threats.
- NLRs influence host-pathogen interactions and gut microbiome composition.
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