How do adaptive immune systems control pathogens while avoiding autoimmunity?

Carl T Bergstrom; Rustom Antia

doi:10.1016/j.tree.2005.11.008

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How do adaptive immune systems control pathogens while avoiding autoimmunity?

Carl T Bergstrom·Rustom Antia

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Abstract

Immune systems face a daunting control challenge. On the one hand, they need to minimize damage from pathogens, without wasting energy and resources, but on the other must avoid initiating or perpetuating autoimmune responses. Finally, because pathogens interfere with immune function, immune systems must be robust against sabotage. We describe here how these challenges are met by two immune systems, the intracellular RNA interference system and the vertebrate CD8 T-cell response. We extrapolate from these two systems to propose principles for strategically robust control.

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Adaptation, Physiological Animals Autoimmunity Bacteria Biological Evolution CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes Host-Parasite Interactions Immune System RNA Interference Vertebrates Viruses Journal Article Review

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Carl T Bergstrom, Rustom Antia. 2005-11-22. How do adaptive immune systems control pathogens while avoiding autoimmunity?. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tree.2005.11.008

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