imd

Imd (often written as IMD or Imd) is an acronym that has several distinct meanings across different fields, and its exact reference is determined by context. Notable uses include a gene- and pathway-related term in biology, a national meteorological service, and a leading European business school.

In biology, Imd refers to a key innate immune signaling pathway in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. The Imd pathway is activated primarily by Gram-negative bacteria and is driven by recognition of specific peptidoglycans by receptors such as PGRP-LC and PGRP-LE. This triggers a signaling cascade involving the Imd adaptor protein, caspases, and the NF-kB–like transcription factor Relish, culminating in the expression of antimicrobial peptides. The pathway operates largely in parallel to the Toll pathway and is important for defense against certain bacterial infections. Disruption of Imd signaling can increase susceptibility to pathogens.

IMD also stands for the Indian Meteorological Department, the national meteorological service of India. It provides weather forecasts, climate data, and warnings for severe weather events. IMD operates a network of observatories and radar systems and supports public safety, agriculture, and disaster management through regular advisories and monsoon and cyclone forecasts. It functions under the Ministry of Earth Sciences and maintains long-term climate monitoring and research programs.

Additionally, IMD refers to the International Institute for Management Development, a private business school based in Lausanne, Switzerland. IMD offers MBA, EMBA, and executive education programs and is known for its emphasis on global leadership, innovative pedagogy, and executive development.

Because IMD appears in multiple domains, the intended meaning is typically clear from the surrounding subject matter.

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