Impact of Heat Shock Proteins on the Immune System: Study with Recombinant Proteins and Cell Culture

Abstract

Heat Shock Proteins (HSPs) play a fundamental role in maintaining cellular protein homeostasis by facilitating the folding of newly synthesized proteins and preventing the formation of harmful aggregates. However, recent studies indicate that HSPs are also present in the extracellular environment under physiological conditions, acting as immunoregulatory agents. The complexity of this relationship between HSPs and the immune system has not yet been fully understood. To deepen the understanding of this complex interaction, we propose the use of recombinant HSPs, which will be tested either in isolation or treated with liposomes, in addition to testing combinations with anti-HSP70 antibodies. The evaluation of the effect of each combination on the proliferation and cytokine production in THP-1 cell cultures will be conducted to verify the occurrence and intensity of immune activation of each combination.