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Updated: May 14, 2026

Microbiota Analysis Using Two-step PCR and Next-generation 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing

Microbiota Analysis Using Two-step PCR and Next-generation 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing

Published on: October 15, 2019

The human microbiome and autoimmunity.

Amy D Proal¹, Paul J Albert, Trevor G Marshall

¹Autoimmunity Research Foundation, Sunnyside, New York 11104, USA. amy.proal@gmail.com

Current Opinion in Rheumatology

|February 2, 2013

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Human microbiome dysbiosis, driven by pathogen accumulation, can trigger autoimmune diseases. This occurs through immune dysregulation and molecular mimicry, impacting metabolism and familial inheritance patterns.

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Last Updated: May 14, 2026

Microbiota Analysis Using Two-step PCR and Next-generation 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing

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Published on: October 15, 2019

Analysis of Fecal Microbiota Dynamics in Lupus-Prone Mice Using a Simple, Cost-Effective DNA Isolation Method

Analysis of Fecal Microbiota Dynamics in Lupus-Prone Mice Using a Simple, Cost-Effective DNA Isolation Method

Published on: May 2, 2022

Area of Science:

Microbiology
Immunology
Genetics

Background:

The human body hosts a vast microbiome, with distinct compositions observed in individuals with autoimmune conditions.
Intracellular microbes can impair innate immune responses by disrupting the vitamin D nuclear receptor, facilitating pathogen proliferation.
Molecular mimicry between pathogens and host proteins contributes to immune dysfunction and autoantibody formation.

Purpose of the Study:

To elucidate the role of human microbiome dysbiosis in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases.
To explain how microbial imbalances can lead to the breakdown of immune tolerance and metabolic dysfunction.

Main Methods:

Review of current research on the human microbiome and its connection to autoimmune diseases.
Analysis of mechanisms including immune dysregulation, molecular mimicry, and metabolic disruption.

Main Results:

Accumulation of pathogens in the microbiome leads to dysregulated gene expression and metabolic processes, underlying autoimmune disease.
Autoimmune diseases may be familial due to inherited microbiome compositions rather than solely genetic factors.
While innate immunity can be stimulated, subsequent cell death can lead to immunopathology.

Conclusions:

The pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases is linked to the progressive accumulation of pathogens within the microbiome.
Microbial dysbiosis profoundly impacts host gene regulation and metabolic pathways.
Familial predisposition to autoimmune conditions may be influenced by inherited microbial communities.