Skip to main content
Log in

Epitope mimics and determinant spreading: pathways to autoimmunity

  • Published:
Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences CMLS Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract.

Infectious microorganisms have evolved molecules which mimic the host in order to aid in their undetected propagation. In response, mammalian hosts have evolved a highly diverse immune repertoire designed to eradicate rapidly changing pathogens. The generation of diversity in the immune repertoire results in potentially damaging self cross-reactivities which require multiple regulatory controls to keep autoreactive lymphocytes in check. Here, we review how molecular mimicry at the T cell level might be important in the development of systemic autoimmunity.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this article

Price excludes VAT (USA)
Tax calculation will be finalised during checkout.

Instant access to the full article PDF.

Institutional subscriptions

Similar content being viewed by others

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

Authors

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Cite this article

Farris, A., Keech, C., Gordon, T. et al. Epitope mimics and determinant spreading: pathways to autoimmunity . CMLS, Cell. Mol. Life Sci. 57, 569–578 (2000). https://doi.org/10.1007/PL00000719

Download citation

  • Issue Date:

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/PL00000719

Navigation