背景
The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the Toll-like receptor (TLR) family which
plays a fundamental role in pathogen recognition and activation of innate immunity. TLRs
are highly conserved from Drosophila to humans and share structural and functional
similarities. They recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) that are
expressed on infectious agents, and mediate the production of cytokines necessary for the
development of effective immunity. The various TLRs exhibit different patterns of
expression. This gene is ubiquitously expressed, and at higher levels than other TLR genes.
Different length transcripts presumably resulting from use of alternative polyadenylation
site, and/or from alternative splicing, have been noted for this gene.
