Abstract: Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the role of Ureaplasma urealyticum-derived lipid-associated membrane proteins (LAMPs) in the host innate immune system, specifically their effect on Toll-like receptors (TLRs). Methods: LAMPs were derived from U. urealyticum strains, and human amniotic epithelial cells (HAECs) were isolated from healthy full-term placentas. Cytokine concentrations were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and TLR2 mRNA by real-time PCR. Expression of TLR2 was confirmed by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Results: LAMPs induced HAECs to produce inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. Cytokine production was reduced after blocking TLR2 using TLR2 inhibitor (anti-hTLR2-IgA). Conclusions: LAMPs isolated from U. urealyticum induced TLR2-dependent up-regulation of inflammatory genes and cytokines in HAECs.

Key words: Ureaplasma urealyticum; Lipid-associated membrane protein; Human amniotic epithelial cell; Toll-like receptor 2

Please provide your name, email address and a comment

Your Name: Affili: E-Mail Address:

Comment (Please comment in English):


Verification Code(click to change a pic):