Activation of Toll-Like Receptor 2 Promotes Proliferation of Human Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells

BACKGROUND/AIM The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) in the proliferation of human lung cancer cells and identify the signaling pathway that mediates this effect. MATERIALS AND METHODS Adenocarcinoma (A549 and H1650) and adenosquamous (H125) cells were treated with increasing doses of Pam3CSK4, a TLR2 agonist. Cell proliferation and NF-ĸB activation were evaluated. NF-ĸB was inhibited prior to treatment with Pam3CSK4 and proliferation was assessed. RESULTS TLR2 expression was significantly higher in A549 and H1650 cells compared to H125 cells (p