Role of infectious agents in autoimmunity

Author: Navarra, Sandra V

Source: Future Rheumatology, Volume 2, Number 3, June 2007 , pp. 321-328(8)

Buy & download fulltext article:

Price: $73.00 plus tax (Refund Policy)

Abstract:

The primary purpose of the immune system is to protect the body against a plethora of microorganisms, which are readily recognized as foreign under normal circumstances. However, the immune system must also be able to distinguish the protein fragments of these microorganisms from those of its own self-antigens through mechanisms of immune tolerance. In addition to genetic susceptibility, crossing this precarious line between responses to foreign versus self antigens may lead to autoimmunity.

Keywords: autoimmunity; infectious agents; pathomechanisms

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2217/17460816.2.3.321

Publication date: 2007-06-01

More about this publication?

Future Rheumatology provides analysis and commentary on our understanding of disease mechanisms, emerging therapeutic strategies and new diagnostic approaches. Key advances in the field are reported and analyzed by international experts, providing an authoritative but accessible forum for this expanding area of specialization.
Editorial Board
Information for Authors
Submit a Paper
Subscribe to this Title
Information for Advertisers
Terms & Conditions
Information for Librarians
E-Access Trials
ingentaconnect is not responsible for the content or availability of external websites