We use cookies to understand how you use our site and to improve your experience. This includes personalizing content and advertising. To learn more, click here. By continuing to use our site, you accept our use of cookies. Cookie Policy.

Features Partner Sites Information LinkXpress hp
Sign In
Advertise with Us
Sekisui Diagnostics

Download Mobile App




Toll-Like Receptor Signaling Critical to Lung Immune Defense

By LabMedica International staff writers
Posted on 03 Feb 2009
A recent study has detailed the process by which the lungs regulate the immune response that protects them from airborne pathogens.

Investigators at Columbia University (New York, NY, USA) studied the activity of lung epithelial cells in a mouse model. More...
They reported in the January 22, 2009, edition of the journal Cell Host & Microbe that in order for the immune system to deal with a pathogenic incursion in the lungs, polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) first have to be recruited from the immune system and transferred into the lungs.

To reach the site of infection, PMNs must pass through epithelial junctions. The current study demonstrated that calcium fluxes generated by toll-like receptor (TLR2) signals activated calpains, calcium-dependent cysteine proteases. These activated calpains cleaved the transmembrane junction proteins occludin and E-cadherin without breaching the integrity of the epithelial barrier.

The investigators showed that calpain inhibitors decreased PMN transfer through the epithelial barrier in response to TLR2 agonists both in vitro and in a mouse model of a bacterial lung infection. Thus, TLR2 signaling in the airway not only induced chemokine expression to recruit PMNs, but also initiated cleavage of junction proteins to accommodate transport of the recruited PMNs.

Related Links:
Columbia University



Platinum Member
Automated Coagulation Analyzer
Hemolumi H6
Gold Member
Blood-Based Protein Biomarker Solution for Alzheimer's Disease
BG-DTi2000.
New
Gold Member
Serum Indices Control
Acusera Serum Indices Control
Hematology Consumables
Bioblood Devices
Read the full article by registering today, it's FREE! It's Free!
Register now for FREE to LabMedica.com and get access to news and events that shape the world of Clinical Laboratory Medicine.
  • Free digital version edition of LabMedica International sent by email on regular basis
  • Free print version of LabMedica International magazine (available only outside USA and Canada).
  • Free and unlimited access to back issues of LabMedica International in digital format
  • Free LabMedica International Newsletter sent every week containing the latest news
  • Free breaking news sent via email
  • Free access to Events Calendar
  • Free access to LinkXpress new product services
  • REGISTRATION IS FREE AND EASY!
Click here to Register








Channels

Clinical Chemistry

view channel
Image Credit: 123RF

Screening After Pneumococcal Disease May Reveal Undiagnosed Blood Cancer or Immune Disorders

Severe pneumococcal disease requiring hospitalization often presents as pneumonia, particularly in older adults and people with cancer or compromised immune function. Because M protein testing and antibody... Read more

Microbiology

view channel
Image Credit: 123RF

FDA-Cleared Multiplex PCR Test Detects 13 Respiratory Pathogens in a Single Sample

Respiratory tract infections can be difficult to distinguish at presentation because many cause overlapping, nonspecific symptoms and are initially grouped as influenza-like illnesses. Causes span a range... Read more

Technology

view channel
Image: The laser-based photoacoustic spectroscopy setup consists of a Mid-IR laser equipped with three QCL modules covering wavelengths from 5.6 μm to 12.9 μm, two silver coated mirrors (SCM), a dichroic mirror (DM) with a transmittance of 90%, a thermal power sensor head (PM) to monitor the output laser power, a mechanical chopper (MC) for frequency modulation and a CEPAS-detector with a self-designed swab holder (SH). (Credit: Graunke, T., Scholz, T., Pieniak, M. et al. Scientific Reports (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-68298-9)

Laser-Based Swab Analysis Shows Promise for Detecting Disease-Linked Odor Patterns

Disease-related changes in volatile organic compounds can alter body odor, producing measurable patterns in exhaled breath and bodily fluids. Current analytical methods can be complex, time-consuming,... Read more

Industry

view channel
Image

Collaboration Combines AI Cognitive Assessment and RNA Blood Testing for Earlier Alzheimer’s Detection

Alzheimer’s disease is often identified only after substantial neurodegeneration, partly because current diagnostic pathways are fragmented and difficult to scale. As treatment shifts toward earlier intervention,... Read more
Copyright © 2000-2026 Globetech Media. All rights reserved.