NOD1 and NOD2 Are Cytoplasmic Sensors of Bacterial Products Such

question 12

Essay

NOD1 and NOD2 are cytoplasmic sensors of bacterial products such as muramyl dipeptide (MDP), a constituent in the peptidoglycans of most bacteria. These sensors are highly expressed in epithelial cells that line the body surfaces that pathogens must cross to establish an infection. Interestingly, a subset of patients with an inflammatory bowel disease called 'Crohn's disease' have inactivating mutations in NOD2. Why might this deficiency in NOD2 lead to chronic inflammation in the gut?

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Definitions:

Shale

A fine-grained sedimentary rock formed from clay-sized particles that are compacted and often used as source rock for oil and gas.

Carbonate Rocks

Sedimentary rocks primarily composed of carbonate minerals, such as limestone and dolomite, often formed in marine environments.

Lagoon Mudstone

A type of sedimentary rock formed from the compaction of mud accumulated in a lagoon environment, characterized by fine grains and layers.

Beach Sandstone

A type of sedimentary rock formed from compacted and lithified grains of sand, typically found in coastal environments.