TLR-signaling networks: an integration of adaptor molecules, kinases, and cross-talk.

UNLABELLED: Toll-like receptors play a critical role in innate immunity by detecting invading pathogens. The ability of TLRs to engage different intracellular signaling molecules and cross-talk with other regulatory pathways is an important factor in shaping the type, magnitude, and duration of the inflammatory response. The present review will cover the fundamental signaling pathways utilized by TLRs and how these pathways regulate the innate immune response to pathogens. ABBREVIATIONS: TLR, Toll-like receptor; PRR, pattern recognition receptor; PAMP, pathogen-associated molecular pattern; LPS, lipopolysaccharide; APC, antigen-presenting cell; IL, interleukin; TIR, Toll/IL-1R homology; MyD88, myeloid differentiation factor 88; IFN, interferon; TRIF, TIR-domain-containing adapter-inducing interferon-ß; IRAK, IL-1R-associated kinase; TAK1, TGF-ß-activated kinase; TAB1, TAK1-binding protein; NF-κB, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B-cells; MAPK, mitogen-activated protein kinase; NLR, NOD-like receptors; LRR, leucine-rich repeats; DC, dendritic cell; PI3K, phosphoinositide 3-kinases; GSK3, glycogen synthase kinase-3; mTOR, mammalian target of rapamycin; DAF, decay-accelerating factor; IKK, IκB kinase; IRF, interferon regulatory factors; TBK1, TANK-binding kinase 1; CARD, caspase activation and recruitment domain; PYD, pyrin N-terminal homology domain; ATF, activating transcription factor; and PTEN, phosphatase and tensin homolog.

[Glucosyltransferase (GTF) and immunization against dental caries in humans]. / Glykosyltranspherase (GTF) kai anosopoiese kata tes teredonas ston anthropo.

Glucosyltransferase (GTF) is an extracellular or cell-associated enzyme synthesized by the "mutans" group of streptococci as well as the S. sanguis and is responsible for the biosynthesis of extracellular polysaccharides. Glucan formation in dental plaque mediates binding of S. mutans and S. sanguis to one another as well as to other bacteria. Although the production of organic acids is an indispensable property of the cariogenic strains of bacteria, their ability to stick and accumulate on tooth surfaces is an almost equally significant parameter of virulence. Furthermore, GTF has been proven to be an effective antigen in eliciting caries-protective secretory IgA antibodies in rodent models. That led to the identification of GTF as a potential antigen for use in a human caries vaccine. The results of recent studies suggest that oral immunization with GTF, has the potential to elicit a secretory IgA antibody response and to interfere with accumulation and permanent colonization of S. mutans on smooth tooth surfaces. However, it cannot be inferred from the available data whether such a vaccine is effective in caries prevention in human beings. Although many modifications seem to be necessary with regard to the composition, dose, frequency and route of administration of the antigen, the preparation of a safe and effective vaccine against human caries is considered to be feasible in the near future.