Journal of Research in Microbiology and Immunology ISSN: 3108-0952 (Online)

Authors: Dr. Meera Kulkarni, Dr. Sandeep Iyer

ABSTRACT: Innate immune receptors, particularly Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and NOD like receptors (NLRs), serve as critical sensors in the host defense against infectious diseases. By recognizing conserved pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), these receptors initiate signaling cascades that orchestrate innate and adaptive immune responses. This paper reviews the structural and functional aspects of TLRs and NLRs, their signaling pathways, and the roles they play in bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections. The mechanisms by which these receptors contribute to pathogen recognition, inflammation, and immune modulation are discussed. Additionally, dysregulation of TLR and NLR signaling in infectious and inflammatory disorders is examined. The review highlights emerging therapeutic strategies targeting these receptors, including agonists and antagonists, to modulate immune responses and improve clinical outcomes. Understanding the role of innate immune receptors is crucial for the development of novel diagnostics, vaccines, and immunotherapies.

KEYWORDS: Innate immunity, Toll-like receptors, NOD-like receptors, infectious diseases, PAMPs, immune modulation, therapeutic targets.