Leukocyte Pathogen Recognition Figure (Figure 17.20). Reprinted from OpenStax Microbiology (p. 711), by N. Parker, M. Shneegurt, A.-h. Thi Tu, B. M. Forester, and P. Lister, 2016, Rice University. https://openstax.org/books/microbiology/pages/17-4-pathogen-recognition-and-phagocytosis. Copyright 2016 by Rice University.

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While pathogen opsonzation can help phagocytes in recognition, phagocytes can also recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) (non-opsonin dependent), which are vital to microbe structure. Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) in phagocytes interact with PAMPs, which acts as the first step in pathogen recognition as well as signals phagocytic activation.

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Leukocyte: Pathogen Recognition

Leukocyte Pathogen Recognition Figure

Molecular structures/motifs common to many pathogens

Pathogen-associated Molecular Patterns (PAMPs)

Structures that allow phagocytes to detect PAMPs. PRRs on macrophages can also detect cell distress signals to mount inflammatory responses against injuries and other diseases. Ex.: Toll-like receptors

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