MSR1

MSR1 (Macrophage Scavenger Receptor 1) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the MSR1 gene. It is a member of the scavenger receptor family, which is a group of proteins involved in the body's immune response.

Function

MSR1 is a receptor that is expressed primarily in macrophages, a type of white blood cell. It plays a crucial role in the body's immune response by recognizing and binding to various types of foreign substances, including bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. This binding triggers the macrophage to engulf and destroy the foreign substance, a process known as phagocytosis.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the MSR1 gene have been associated with a number of medical conditions. For example, research has suggested a link between MSR1 mutations and an increased risk of prostate cancer. Other studies have implicated MSR1 in the development of atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries.

Research

Ongoing research is investigating the role of MSR1 in other diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease and Alzheimer's disease. Understanding the function of MSR1 and its role in disease could potentially lead to new therapeutic strategies.

See also

• Scavenger receptor
• Macrophage
• Protein
• Gene