pattern recognition receptors (PRRs)

Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) are specialized proteins found on immune cells that identify common features of pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. These features, called pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), are shared among many microbes. When PRRs detect PAMPs, they activate immune responses to fight off the invaders. Think of PRRs as the immune system’s sensors or detectors that help recognize potential threats quickly, initiating defense mechanisms to protect the body from infection.