The endotoxin released
from the Gram-negative cell wall binds to LPS receptors on the surface of defense
cells such as monocytes, macrophages and neutrophils. This is a normal component
of body defense and is one of the mechanisms by which the body is able to recognize
that Gram-negative bacteria have invaded the body.
The binding of
the LPS to the LPS receptors on the surface of monocytes
and macrophages triggers them to release cytokines such as TNF-alpha, Il-1,
Il-6, and Il-8.
