Research progress in innate immunity of freshwater crustaceans

Invertebrates lack adaptive immunity and innate immunity plays important roles in combating foreign invasive pathogens. Freshwater crustaceans, which are invertebrates, depend completely on their innate immune system. In recent years, many immune-related molecules in freshwater crustaceans, as well as their functions, have been identified. Three main immune signaling pathways, namely, Toll, immune deficiency (IMD), and Janus kinase-signal transducer activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathways, were found in freshwater crustaceans. A series of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), including Toll receptors, lectins, lipopolysaccharide and β-1,3-glucan binding protein, scavenger receptors, Down syndrome cell adhesion molecules, and thioester-containing proteins, were reported. Prophenoloxidase activation system and antimicrobial peptide synthesis are two important immune effector systems. These components are involved in the innate immunity of freshwater crustaceans, and they function in the innate immune defense against invading pathogens. This review mainly summarizes innate immune signaling pathways, PRRs, and effector molecules in freshwater crustaceans.