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Rheumatogenic streptococci and autoimmunity.
1Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts 02215.
Clinical Immunology and Immunopathology
|November 1, 1991
Summary
Group A Streptococcus uniquely causes heart disease in some individuals. Researchers are investigating specific host immune responses and shared antigens, like M protein, to understand autoimmunity
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cardiology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Group A Streptococcus (GAS) causes cardiodestructive disease in a subset of humans.
- The specific host response and contributing autoimmune factors remain unclear.
- Rheumatic heart disease pathogenesis is a persistent clinical challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore unique host responses to specific streptococcal antigens.
- To investigate the role of autoimmunity in rheumatic heart disease.
- To leverage new methodologies for incisive clinical research.
Main Methods:
- Identifying streptococcal antigens that mimic host tissues (e.g., M protein/cardiac myosin, hyaluronate).
- Developing approaches to isolate and cultivate cardiotoxic T cell clones.
- Utilizing new research methodologies for detailed investigation.
Main Results:
- Defined streptococcal antigens (M protein, hyaluronate) are potential cross-reactive epitopes.
- New methodologies enable more precise research into host-parasite interactions.
- Potential exists for isolating specific T cell clones targeting shared epitopes.
Conclusions:
- Investigating shared epitopes between GAS antigens and host tissues is crucial.
- Understanding autoimmune responses may elucidate rheumatic heart disease pathogenesis.
- Future research may confirm autoimmunity's role in this condition.