InvivoGen provides a set of tools to study key pathways in host-microbe interaction and inflammation.
The Aryl hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) and the TIFA/ALPK1 axis are key components of distinct pathways involved in immune regulation and inflammation sensing.
AhR is a ligand-activated transcription factor that responds to environmental toxins (such as dioxins), dietary compounds, and microbiota-derived metabolites. Upon activation, it translocates to the nucleus and regulates the expression of genes involved in xenobiotic metabolism, immune responses, and barrier integrity.
TIFA (TRAF-interacting protein with a forkhead-associated domain) and ALPK1 (Alpha-kinase 1) form a cytosolic pattern recognition system activated by bacterial metabolites, particularly ADP-heptose, a precursor of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Binding of ADP-heptose to ALPK1 leads to TIFA phosphorylation, which in turn activates NF-κB and initiates a pro-inflammatory response.
While AhR typically modulates immune tolerance and maintains epithelial barrier function, the TIFA/ALPK1 axis rapidly detects intracellular pathogen-associated signals to trigger innate immune defenses. Both systems play crucial roles in innate immunity, each operating through unique mechanisms.
InvivoGen provides a growing library of functionally tested AhR and ALPK1-TIFA ligands
- FICZ – A tryptophan-derived agonist of AhR
- CH-223191 – A ligand-selective antagonist of AhR
- ADP-L-Heptose – A bacterial metabolite that activates the ALPK1-TIFA pathway
Key features of InvivoGen's AhR and ALPK1-TIFA Ligands
- Each lot is functionally tested
- Guaranteed free of unwanted bacterial contaminants
Read our review on AhR’s key role in the intestinal microbiota and immunity
