Mycoplasma lipoproteins and Toll-like receptors.

Author: Ling-ling ZUO ¹ ; Yi-mou WU ; Xiao-xing YOU
Author Information

1. Institute of Pathogenic Biology, University of South China, Hengyang, China.
Publication Type:Journal Article
MeSH: Lipoproteins; chemistry; metabolism; Models, Biological; Mycoplasma; chemistry; metabolism; Toll-Like Receptors; chemistry; metabolism
From: Journal of Zhejiang University. Science. B 2009;10(1):67-76
CountryChina
Language:English
Abstract: Mycoplasmas, the smallest free-living, self-replicating bacteria with diameters of 200 to 800 nm, have been reported to be associated with human diseases. It is well known that the mycoplasma lipoprotein/peptide is able to modulate the host immune system, whose N-terminal structure is an important factor in inducing immunity and distinguishing Toll-like receptors (TLRs). However, there is still no clear elucidation about the pathogenic mechanism of mycoplasma lipoprotein/peptide and the signaling pathway. Some researchers have focused on understanding the structures of these proteins and the relationships between their structure and biological function. This review provides an update on the research in this field.