Toll‐like receptor 2/4 links to free fatty acid‐induced inflammation and β‐cell dysfunction

T2D is a metabolic and inflammatory disease characterized by deteriorating -cell function and increased levels of inflammatory cytokines. Low-grade inflammation and innate immune system activation lead to -cell failure. Recently, SFAs have been proposed as triggers of metabolism-associated inflammation through the TLR family of PRRs. In this review, recent progress in defining the molecular basis of FFA-associated TLR2/4 activation and signaling in -cell dysfunction and apoptosis is summarized. Furthermore, we highlight links between TLRs and diabetic complications, insulin resistance, and autophagy. This knowledge may facilitate novel strategies to abrogate inflammation in T2D. J. Leukoc. Biol. 95: 000–000; 2014.