Pattern Recognition Receptors
Pattern Recognition Receptors (PRRs) are proteins found in the immune system that help detect pathogens like bacteria and viruses. They recognize specific patterns, known as pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), which are unique to these harmful organisms. By identifying these patterns, PRRs play a crucial role in initiating the body's immune response.
There are several types of PRRs, including Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and NOD-like receptors (NLRs). These receptors are located on the surface of immune cells and within cells, allowing them to monitor for infections. When PRRs bind to PAMPs, they trigger signaling pathways that lead to inflammation and the activation of other immune responses.