What is Human Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2(TREM2) and its biological function

Human Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM2) is a transmembrane receptor protein that is expressed by immune cells, including microglia, in the central nervous system (CNS). TREM2 has been shown to play a role in the immune response to neurological injuries and infections, as well as in the development and maintenance of the CNS.

One of the main functions of TREM2 is to regulate the activation and migration of microglia, which are immune cells that serve as the primary source of immune defense in the CNS. TREM2 has been shown to inhibit the activation of microglia and to promote their migration towards sites of injury or inflammation in the brain.

In addition to its role in the immune response, TREM2 has also been implicated in the development of several neurological diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease. Genetic variants of TREM2 have been associated with an increased risk of developing these diseases, and TREM2 has been suggested as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of these conditions.

There has been recent research progress in the development of drugs targeting TREM2. For example, a study published in 2018 demonstrated that a TREM2 agonist was able to reduce the severity of neurodegeneration in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Additionally, a phase 1 clinical trial of a TREM2 antagonist is currently underway to investigate its potential as a treatment for multiple sclerosis.