Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 20, 2026

Overlapping Peptide Library to Map Qa-1 Epitopes in a Protein
Published on: December 20, 2017
Immunoregulation of cellular lifespan: physiologic autoantibodies and their peptide antigens
1Department of Neurology, University of Geneva Hospital, Micheli du Crest 24, CH 1211, Geneva, Switzerland. margueritekay@mail.com
Abstract:
Physiologic autoantibodies are part of our normal immune repertoire where they function to maintain homeostasis by performing physiologic functions. The role of physiologic autoantibodies in removing senescent and damaged cells is probably the best example of a physiologic autoantibody, complete with well established function. IgG autoantibodies bind to altered band 3 anion exchanger protein on senescent cells and trigger their removal by macrophages. Band 3 isoforms are found in all cells, tissues, and membranes, and in all species examined. In this paper, we discuss the innate immune response to band 3 membrane proteins and their regulation of cellular lifespan. The role of physiologic autoantibodies and their peptide antigens in health and disease, apoptosis, and their therapeutic potential is discussed focusing on the examples of senescence and malaria.
Related Concept Videos
Cell-mediated Immune Responses
Immunological Memory
What is Immunological Memory?
Immunological memory is an integral function of the immune system that allows it to recognize and react more rapidly and effectively to pathogens previously encountered. This feature is...
Antigens Involved in Adaptive Immunity
Complete Antigens
Complete antigens possess both immunogenicity and reactivity.
Cells of the Adaptive Immune Response
B Cell Activation and Differentiation
When naive B cells encounter a specific antigen that can bind to the B cell receptor (BCR) on their surface, they undergo sensitization to respond to the antigen's presence. Sensitization begins with...
Humoral Immune Responses

