CD14 and other recognition molecules for lipopolysaccharide: a review

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or endotoxin elicits a broad, non-specific cascade of events in vivo, resulting in secretion of a variety of potent mediators and cytokines produced primarily by activated macrophages and monocytes. The overproduction of these effector molecules, such as interleukin-1 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha, contributes to the pathophysiology of endotoxic shock. Cellular recognition of LPS involves several different molecules, including cluster of differentiation antigen CD14. A thorough understanding of the interaction of LPS with cells of the immune system is necessary before effective preventative or therapeutic measures can be designed to limit the host response to endotoxin. This review discusses the role of CD14 and other LPS-recognition molecules in LPS-mediated macrophage activation.