Characterization of NOD s and TLR s in innate immune response of human cementoblast cells

Objectives Microbial Pattern‐recognition receptors ( PRR s), such as Toll‐like receptors ( TLR s) and the nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domains ( NOD s), are essential for mammalian innate immune response. In this study, we examined the characterization of NOD s and TLR s on innate immune responses in human cementoblast ( HCEM ) cells. Materials and Methods The gene expression of NOD s and TLR s was examined by RT ‐ PCR . Interleukin‐6 ( IL ‐6) and Interleukin‐8 ( IL ‐8) productions in culture supernatants were measured by ELISA . Western blot analysis was performed to determine the degradation of I κ B ‐α and M itogen activated protein kinase ( MAPK ) activation in response to their agonist. Results The levels of NOD s and TLR s were apparently expressed in HCEM cells. Although a few gene levels were weak in intact cells, the stimulation by their agonists increased the gene expression of TLR s. NOD s and TLR s led to the production of IL ‐6 or IL ‐8 and the degradation of I κ B ‐α and MAPK activation in HCEM cells. Combination treatment of NOD 1 or NOD 2 agonists with TLR s agonists did not influence the production of IL ‐6 and IL ‐8 in HCEM cells. Conclusions Our results indicate that NOD s and TLR s are functionally expressed in HCEM cells and can trigger innate immune responses. However, NOD 1 and NOD 2 may not be cooperated with TLR s to elicit an immune response in HCEM cells.