Receptors in Oral Epithelial Innate Immunity

Abstract

EditorialOpen AccessAs the first line of defense between the outside environment and the host, epithelial tissues utilize an elaborate signaling network in the presence of colonizing bacteria. A number of signal transduction pathways and Pattern Recognition Receptors (PRRs) are involved in the bacterial-host communication and the production of innate immune responses by the host. Oral epithelia, in particular, are constantly exposed to hundreds of different species of bacteria, yet maintain healthy homeostasis. Numerous studies have reported on a complex biological system in the oral epithelia and what roles different epithelial PRRs play on the induction of appropriate innate immune responses.