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Infections and autoimmunity: the multifaceted relationship
Paolo Sfriso1, Anna Ghirardello, Costantino Botsios
1Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128 Padova, Italy.
Journal of Leukocyte Biology
|December 18, 2009
Summary
Infections can trigger autoimmune diseases through various mechanisms, but their relationship is complex, with microbes also potentially protecting against autoimmunity. Autoimmune patients are also more susceptible to infections.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
- Autoimmunity
Background:
- Autoimmune disorders arise from complex interactions between genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors.
- Infections are increasingly recognized as a significant environmental trigger for autoimmune diseases.
- The relationship between infections and autoimmunity is bidirectional and multifaceted.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pivotal role of infection in the induction of autoimmune disorders.
- To explore the diverse mechanisms by which pathogens initiate or perpetuate autoimmunity.
- To discuss the complex and bidirectional relationship between infections and autoimmune diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating the link between infections and autoimmune disorders.
- Analysis of antigen-specific and non-specific mechanisms of infection-induced autoimmunity.
- Examination of evidence for both pro- and anti-autoimmune effects of microbial agents.
Main Results:
- Pathogens can induce autoimmunity via molecular mimicry, altered antigen presentation, and bystander activation.
- Infections can also protect against or abrogate autoimmune processes, depending on host-microbe interactions.
- Autoimmune patients exhibit increased susceptibility to infections, often due to treatments.
Conclusions:
- Infections play a critical role in initiating and modulating autoimmune diseases.
- Microorganisms possess the potential to both induce and protect against autoimmunity.
- Understanding these complex interactions is crucial for managing autoimmune conditions and infection risk.
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