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