Immunomodulation by gut microbiota: role of Toll-like receptor expressed by T cells

J Immunol Res. 2014:2014:586939. doi: 10.1155/2014/586939. Epub 2014 Jul 24.

Abstract

A close relationship exists between gut microbiota and immune responses. An imbalance of this relationship can determine local and systemic immune diseases. In fact the immune system plays an essential role in maintaining the homeostasis with the microbiota that normally resides in the gut, while, at the same time, the gut microbiota influences the immune system, modulating number and function of effector and regulatory T cells. To achieve this aim, mutual regulation between immune system and microbiota is achieved through several mechanisms, including the engagement of toll-like receptors (TLRs), pathogen-specific receptors expressed on numerous cell types. TLRs are able to recognize ligands from commensal or pathogen microbiota to maintain the tolerance or trigger the immune response. In this review, we summarize the latest evidences about the role of TLRs expressed in adaptive T cells, to understand how the immune system promotes intestinal homeostasis, fights invasion by pathogens, and is modulated by the intestinal microbiota.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adaptive Immunity
  • Animals
  • Gastrointestinal Tract / immunology*
  • Gastrointestinal Tract / metabolism
  • Gastrointestinal Tract / microbiology*
  • Gene Expression
  • Homeostasis
  • Humans
  • Immune System Diseases / genetics
  • Immune System Diseases / immunology
  • Immune System Diseases / metabolism
  • Immunomodulation*
  • Lymphocyte Activation / immunology
  • Microbiota*
  • T-Lymphocyte Subsets / immunology
  • T-Lymphocyte Subsets / metabolism
  • Toll-Like Receptors / genetics
  • Toll-Like Receptors / metabolism

Substances

  • Toll-Like Receptors