Damage-Associated Molecular Patterns (DAMPs) are endogenous molecules released during cellular stress or injury, activating the immune system. Examples include HMGB1, ATP, Heat-Shock Proteins, Uric Acid, S100 Proteins, DNA/RNA Fragments, and Mitochondrial Components. Undetectable in healthy cells, DAMPs signal danger when exposed, prompting immune response.

The immune system can detect different pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) from various human pathogens. Bacteria present lipopolysaccharide, peptidoglycan, flagellin, and unmethylated CpG DNA. Viruses show double-stranded RNA, single-stranded RNA, and CpG DNA motifs. Fungi are recognized through β-glucans, zymosan, and chitin, while parasites exhibit GPI, parasite DNA/RNA, and parasite-specific proteins.

PAMPs, MAMPs, and DAMPs are molecular patterns triggering immune responses. PAMPs, associated with pathogens, activate immune cells against invading microorganisms. MAMPs, broader in scope, encompass patterns from various microbes. DAMPs, tied to cellular damage, prompt immune response signaling tissue injury. Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) are key in all cases.