TREM is an abbreviation for Triggering Receptor Expressed on Myeloid cells. It is a transmembrane receptor protein that belongs to the immunoglobulin superfamily and is primarily expressed on myeloid cells, such as macrophages and dendritic cells.
The term TREM was coined to describe a specific group of receptors that share structural similarities and play important roles in regulating immune responses. These receptors are involved in mediating both inhibitory and activating signals in response to cellular interactions and play a crucial role in modulating inflammation and immune homeostasis.
TREM receptors possess an extracellular immunoglobulin-like domain, a transmembrane domain, and an intracellular signaling motif. They interact with various ligands on neighboring cells or extracellular matrix components to transmit signals into the cell and activate downstream signaling pathways. This leads to the modulation of cellular activities, including phagocytosis, cytokine production, cell migration, and antigen presentation.
Due to their crucial role in immune regulation, TREM receptors have been implicated in a variety of diseases, including autoimmune disorders, infectious diseases, and cancer. Understanding the function and regulation of TREM receptors is therefore important for gaining insights into the underlying mechanisms of these diseases and developing potential therapeutic strategies.
In summary, TREM is an abbreviation for a group of transmembrane receptors expressed on myeloid cells that play key roles in regulating immune responses and maintaining immune homeostasis.
