Differential induction of Toll-like receptor gene expression in equine monocytes activated by Toll-like receptor ligands or TNF-α.

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) function as sentinels for the innate immune system, detecting microbial ligands during infection and inflammation. Previous studies indicate that activation of these receptors on equine monocytes leads to discrete pro- and anti-inflammatory responses that are mediated through the induction of specific cytokine genes. However, less is known regarding the regulation of TLR gene expression in these cells.