Toll-like Receptor (TLR) Response in Chikungunya Virus Infection: Mechanism of Activation, Immune Evasion, and Use of TLR Agonists in Vaccine Development.

CHIKV is a re-emerging mosquito-borne arthritogenic alphavirus associated with large outbreaks and severe joint pain, and it poses a growing global health threat. Toll-like receptors (TLRs), as key pattern recognition receptors, detect viral components and initiate antiviral immune responses. Increasing evidence highlights the role of TLR signaling in shaping CHIKV infection outcomes, though its precise contribution remains unclear. CHIKV has developed mechanisms to evade host innate immune surveillance, promoting viral replication. TLR agonists show promise as vaccine adjuvants by enhancing immune responses. In this review, we summarize current insights into TLR-mediated immunity during CHIKV infection, the virus's innate immune evasion strategies, and the potential of TLR agonists in improving vaccine efficacy.