Introduction

The Toll-Like Receptor 3 (TLR3) is part of a family of integral membrane receptors that recognize pathogen-associated molecular signatures. TLR3 ectodomain binds dsRNA initiating a signaling cascade resulting in a inflammatory response.  This structure does NOT contain the transmembrane domain.

Wire Frame Model of TLR3 ectodomain complex with dsRNA

Spacefill Model illustrating dimerized Ectodomains

Amino Acid residues on single monomer required for binding dsRNA

Backbone and side chains of TLR3 ecodomain

Mixed rendering showing the TLR3 in cartoon form and dsRNA in space filling form

Solvent excluded molecular surface - (solid 1.4 A) - surface at contact with sphere (molecular)

Electrostatic Map illustrating region of TLR3 ectodomain that binds dsRNA (wireframe CPK)

Reference

Lin Liu, Istvan Botos, Yan Wang, Joshua N. Leonard, Joseph Shiloach, David M. Segal, David R. Davies. Structural Basis of Toll-Like Receptor 3 Signaling with Double-Stranded RNA. Science. Vol 320. 18 April 2008.