[Expression of toll-like receptors in human epidermal keratinocytes].

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the toll-like receptors (TLR) profile of human epidermal keratinocytes.

METHODS

We cultured the immortalized human epidermal keratinocyte cell line HaCaT cells and normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEK) and separated epidermis with dispase from foreskins. TLR 1-10 mRNA expression was detected with reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). TLR 2 and 4 protein expressions on surface of HaCaT cells and NHEK were detected using flow cytometry.

RESULTS

HaCaT cells, NHEK, and epidermis all expressed TLR 1-10 mRNA with different intensity. TLR 4 protein was detected on the surfaces of HaCaT cells and NHEK, while the expression of TLR 2 protein was few.

CONCLUSION

Human epidermal keratinocytes constitutively express all TLR 1-10 mRNA, which may enable human keratinocytes to respond to a wide range of pathogenic micro-organisms.