In immunology, RLR stands for Retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I)-like receptor. These are crucial components of the innate immune system responsible for detecting viral infections.
Understanding RLRs
RLRs are a family of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) found within the cytoplasm of cells. Their primary role is to sense specific molecular patterns associated with viruses, particularly viral RNA.
Function and Importance
As noted in the provided information, Retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I)-like receptors (RLRs) are key sensors of virus infection. When an RLR detects viral RNA, it triggers a signaling cascade that leads to a powerful antiviral response.
This response includes:
- Mediating the transcriptional induction of type I interferons: Interferons (IFNs) are critical signaling proteins that warn neighboring cells about the infection, inhibit viral replication, and activate other immune cells.
- Inducing other genes that collectively establish an antiviral host response: Beyond interferons, RLR activation leads to the expression of numerous other genes involved in inflammation, antiviral protein production, and immune cell recruitment.
Essentially, RLRs act like intracellular security alarms that detect invaders (viruses) and initiate the coordinated defense mechanisms necessary to fight off the infection.
| Term | Full Name | Primary Function | Detected Pathogen |
|---|---|---|---|
| RLR | Retinoic acid-inducible gene I-like Receptor | Sensing intracellular viral RNA | Viruses |
By recognizing unique features of viral RNA that are distinct from host RNA, RLRs play a vital role in distinguishing self from non-self and launching an effective immune response to control and eliminate viral threats.
