Summary
The innate immune system represents the principal sensor of infections in multicellular
organisms and might also mediate responses to some endogenous molecules. In this context,
endothelial cells are among the first cells coming into contact with microbial or
endogenous (danger-associated) molecules or whole pathogens entering the bloodstream.
Since many bacteria and viruses invade the endothelium, endothelial cells are equipped
with both extracellular and cytosolic surveillance systems capable of sensing microbial
components, and endogenous danger-associated molecules. The receptor molecules, called
pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), are classified as transmembrane or cytosolic
molecules. While the transmembrane PRRs recognize extracellular and membrane-enclosed
foreign organisms, the cytosolic PRRs appear to sense intracellular infections. Here
we focus on both PRR classes in general, and outline the current knowledge of extra-
and intracellular pattern recognition in endothelial cells and its potential role
in vascular diseases and sepsis.
Keywords
Toll-like receptors - Nod-like receptors - CARD-helicases - endothelial cells