Formyl peptide receptors in the mucosal immune system

Abstract

Formyl peptide receptors: Receptors in the mucosal immune system Key receptors in defense against bacteria may also be attractive targets for diseases of the mucosa, the tissue that lines and protects areas such as the airways and gastrointestinal tract. Formyl peptide receptors (FPRs) detect substances produced by bacteria and host cells triggering immune or wound-healing responsesYoe-Sik Bae and Yu Sun Jeong at Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, South Korea, have reviewed how FPRs in the mucosa mediate the immune response. They report that FPRs play many roles, promoting wound closure, enhancing fibrosis of tissues, and promoting or suppressing inflammation in various tissues. FPRs may also be involved in conditions such as Crohn’s disease and asthma. Further study may reveal opportunities for development of FPRs as therapeutic targets in mucosal diseases.