[Heat shock proteins and their role in the development of pathological processes].

Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are the most conserved proteins present in the archea, pro- and eukaryotes. HSPs have a dual function depending on their intra- or extracellular location. Intracellular HSPs play a cytoprotective role providing the cells with mechanisms to prevent damage caused by misfolded, damaged, aggregated, or insoluble proteins. Extracellularly located or membrane-bond HSPs participate in both innate and adaptive immune responses. The recent review focuses on the role of HSPs in the pathogenesis of infections, autoimmune, cardiovascular, oncological, neurodegenerative, and other diseases. HSPs may serve as potential molecular targets for therapeutic intervention in the treatment of various diseases, including cancer, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Some HSPs may be used as immunoadjuvants or as HSP-based vaccines for the treatment of infections and cancers.