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Asthma as a paradigm for autoimmune disease
1Division of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, HaEmek Medical Center, Afula, Israel.
International Archives of Allergy and Immunology
|December 4, 2003
Summary
Allergies and autoimmune diseases may share common immune system pathways. This review explores shared mechanisms involving mast cells, antibodies, T cells, and genetics, suggesting a unified approach to treatment.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pathophysiology
Background:
- Allergy and autoimmunity stem from immune system dysregulation.
- Previously, distinct mechanisms were assumed, but new evidence suggests shared pathways.
- Concomitant presentation of asthma and autoimmune conditions in patients indicates potential commonalities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the potential common mechanisms and relationships between asthma and autoimmune conditions.
- To examine key immune response regulators like mast cells, antibodies, T cells, cytokines, and genetic factors in both diseases.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on asthma and autoimmune conditions.
- Analysis of shared immunological components and regulatory elements.
- Exploration of potential common pathogenetic effector pathways.
Main Results:
- Mast cells and their mediators may significantly impact autoimmune processes.
- Activation of protein kinases by cytokines and environmental factors could link allergic and autoimmune diseases.
- Autoantibodies in allergic diseases suggest an autoimmune basis; T cell receptor loci are candidates for shared susceptibility.
Conclusions:
- Shared pathophysiological mechanisms may underlie the parallel occurrence of asthma and autoimmune conditions.
- Immunomodulation is crucial for effectively treating both asthma and autoimmune diseases.