PGLYRP1

Peptidoglycan Recognition Protein 1 (PGLYRP1), also termed Tag7 or PGRP-S, is a secreted innate immunity effector that specifically binds to bacterial peptidoglycan. Functioning as a pattern recognition receptor, it activates bactericidal pathways through direct microbial membrane disruption and synergistic interactions with lysozyme or antimicrobial peptides. Mechanistically, PGLYRP1 exhibits peptidoglycan hydrolase activity, cleaving glycosidic bonds in pathogen cell walls while modulating inflammatory responses via crosstalk with Toll-like receptor (TLR) and NOD-like receptor signaling pathways. Its expression is tightly regulated in granulocytes and epithelial barriers, serving as a first-line defense against Gram-positive and Gram-negative infections.
Dysregulation of PGLYRP1 has been implicated in chronic inflammatory disorders, including inflammatory bowel disease and rheumatoid arthritis, where elevated levels correlate with sustained neutrophil activation. Conversely, genetic polymorphisms are associated with increased susceptibility to Helicobacter pylori infection and psoriasis. Recent drug discovery efforts focus on modulating PGLYRP1's immunomodulatory properties, with monoclonal antibodies targeting its pro-inflammatory axis in phase I trials for autoimmune conditions. Additionally, recombinant PGLYRP1 is being explored as an adjuvant therapy to enhance conventional antibiotics against multidrug-resistant pathogens, demonstrating bactericidal synergy in preclinical models.