Toll-like Receptor
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are a class of proteins that play a key role in the innate immune system as well as the digestive system. They are single, membrane-spanning, non-catalytic receptors that recognize structurally conserved molecules derived from microbes. Once these microbes have breached physical barriers such as the skin or intestinal tract mucosa, they are recognized by TLRs, which activate immune cell responses.
They receive their name from their similarity to the protein coded by the Toll gene identified in Drosophila in 1985 by Christiane Nüsslein-Volhard. The gene in question, when mutated, makes the Drosophila flies look unusual. The researchers were so surprised that they spontaneously shouted out in German "Das ist ja toll!" which translates as "That's great!".
Read more about Toll-like Receptor: Diversity, Discovery, Extended Family, Ligands, Signaling, Summary of Known Mammalian TLRs, Activation and Effects, Drugs Interactions
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