Background
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 expressed most abundantly in;peripheral blood leukocytes, and mediates host response to Gram-positive bacteria and yeast via stimulation of;NF-kappaB.