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Viral-induced autoimmune disorders: Mechanistic insights and emerging concepts
Aruna Rajalingam1, Anjali Ganjiwale2
1Department of Life Sciences, School of Biological and Forensic Sciences, Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru, Karnataka 560077, India.
Human Immunology
|June 5, 2026
Summary
Viral infections can trigger autoimmune disorders (ADs) through mechanisms like molecular mimicry and cytokine storms. Understanding these links aids in developing new diagnostic and treatment strategies for ADs.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Microbiome Research
Background:
- Autoimmune disorders (ADs) arise from genetic and environmental factors.
- Viral infections are increasingly recognized as key triggers for ADs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanisms by which viruses initiate and exacerbate autoimmunity.
- To explore the roles of trained immunity and cytokine storms in virus-induced autoimmunity.
- To examine the interplay between gut microbiota dysbiosis and immune dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current evidence on virus-induced autoimmunity.
- Analysis of established immunological mechanisms (molecular mimicry, bystander activation, epitope spreading).
- Evaluation of emerging concepts like trained immunity and cytokine storms.
Main Results:
- Viruses like Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), Enteroviruses, and SARS-CoV-2 are implicated in AD development.
- Mechanisms include molecular mimicry, bystander activation, epitope spreading, maladaptive trained immunity, and cytokine storms.
- Gut microbiota dysbiosis is linked to virus-induced immune failure.
Conclusions:
- Understanding virus-host interactions is vital for autoimmune disease pathogenesis.
- Biomarker-driven diagnostic and therapeutic strategies are needed for ADs.
- Further research into trained immunity and microbiota is crucial.
Keywords:
Cytokine stormGut microbiota dysbiosisMaladaptive trained immunityMolecular mimicryViral infectionsVirus-induced autoimmunityMore Related Videos
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