The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the Toll-like receptor (TLR) family which plays a fundamental role in pathogen recognition and activation of innate immunity. TLRs are highly conserved from Drosophila to humans and share structural and functional similarities. They recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) that are expressed on infectious agents, and mediate the production of cytokines necessary for the development of effective immunity. The various TLRs exhibit different patterns of expression. This gene is ubiquitously expressed, and at higher levels than other TLR genes. Different length transcripts presumably resulting from use of alternative polyadenylation site, and/or from alternative splicing, have been noted for this gene. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008].
Kacerovsky, Andrys, Drahosova, Musilova, Hornychova, Lesko, Tosner, Jacobsson: "Soluble Toll-like receptor 1 family members in the amniotic fluid of women with preterm prelabor rupture of the membranes." in: The journal of maternal-fetal & neonatal medicine, Vol. 25, Issue 9, pp. 1699-704, (2012) (PubMed).
Yang, Xie, Deng, Qin: "Expression of soluble Toll-like receptors in pleural effusions." in: Chinese medical journal, Vol. 123, Issue 16, pp. 2225-30, (2010) (PubMed).