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When cells are injured, how do DAMPs initiate a life-or-death immune war?
In our bodies, there is a group of molecules called damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) that play a key role in communicating with the immune system. These molecules are released when cells are traumatized or infected and awaken the body's immune defense mechanisms. DAMPs, often regarded as "danger signals" or alarmins, can quickly notify the body of what damage has occurred, thereby initiating a life-or-death battle between cells.
When cells are excessively damaged or die, DAMPs will enter the outside of the cell and trigger an inflammatory response by binding to pattern recognition receptors (PRR)
Initiation of immune response
DAMPs are released outside the cells after cells are traumatized, which promotes the initiation of non-infectious inflammatory responses. These molecules bind to specific receptors, such as IL-1R or TLR, which sense the presence of DAMPs and allow the immune system to respond quickly.
For example, IL-1α is a DAMP originating from the cell nucleus. When released, it stimulates an inflammatory response to fight potential harm.
Source of DAMPs
The sources of DAMPs can be the nucleus, cytoplasm, mitochondria and extracellular matrix of cells. These molecules are released after cells are damaged. This process also changes their environment, causing them to lose their original functions, thus Activate immune response.
Clinical application and future impact
With in-depth research on DAMPs, it is believed that these danger signals can serve as so-called biomarkers to help diagnose and treat various diseases. For example, levels of some DAMPs are increased in chronic arthritis, which provides predictors of disease progression.
In many diseases, the regulation of DAMPs may become a new target for treatment, such as cancer, arthritis and stroke.
DAMPs in plants
It is worth noting that DAMPs are not only found in animals. Plant cells also release these signals and initiate immune responses when they are injured. The differences between this process and the immune systems of plants and animals show the diversity and importance of DAMPs.
Conclusion
DAMPs act as signals of cellular damage, and in both plants and animals, these molecules effectively initiate immune responses to fight disease and trauma. However, when it comes to understanding these red flags, there is still much uncharted territory that deserves further exploration. In the future, as our understanding of DAMPs deepens, can we discover new treatments to better combat these threats from the inside out?
