Infectious diseases, autoantibodies, and autoimmunity

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Autoimmunity research
• Infectious disease immunology

Background:

• Infections are established triggers for autoimmune disease flares in humans and animals.
• Antigen mimicry was previously considered the primary mechanism for infection-induced autoimmunity.
• Emerging evidence points to broader mechanisms involving immune cell activation and epitope changes.

Approach:

• This review synthesizes recent research on infection-mediated autoimmune responses.
• It examines the diverse mechanisms by which infections can initiate and perpetuate autoimmunity.
• Focus is placed on T and B cell activation and epitope spreading.

Key Points:

• Infections can cause bystander activation of autoreactive T and B cells, leading to polyclonal activation.
• This activation can result in both non-pathogenic and pathogenic autoimmune responses.
• Epitope spreading, a mechanism where infections promote targeting of additional self-epitopes, is a key factor.

Conclusions:

• Infections play a significant role in the initiation and exacerbation of autoimmune diseases.
• Understanding infection-mediated autoimmunity mechanisms is crucial for developing targeted therapies.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate the complex interplay between infection and autoimmunity.