Epitope mimics and determinant spreading: Pathways to autoimmunity

A. D. Farris, C. L. Keech, T. P. Gordon, J. McCluskey

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

34 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Infectious microorganisms have evolved molecules which mimic the host in order to aid in their undetected propagation. In response, mammalian hosts have evolved a highly diverse immune repertoire designed to eradicate rapidly changing pathogens. The generation of diversity in the immune repertoire results in potentially damaging self cross-reactivities which require multiple regulatory controls to keep autoreactive lymphocytes in check. Here, we review how molecular mimicry at the T cell level might be important in the development of systemic autoimmunity.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)569-578
Number of pages10
JournalCellular and Molecular Life Sciences
Volume57
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2000
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Autoimmunity
  • Determinant spreading
  • Mimicry
  • T cell
  • Tolerance

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