Autoimmunity

Question 1

What are five examples of defective mechanisms Dr. Rabson gave that might contribute to autoimmune disease.

Answer 1

1. Exposure of hidden antigens
2. Polyclonal lymphocyte activation
3. Excessive cytokine production
4. Defective Fas - FasL interaction
5. Defective T cell regulation (CTLA-4 or Tregs–> IL-10, IGF-beta)

Question 2

By which mechanism do EBV and superantigen contribute to autoimmune disease?

Answer 2

Polyclonal lymphocyte activation

Question 3

How does Rheumatic fever, diabetes, and MS cause autoimmune disease?

Answer 3

Molecular mimicry

Question 4

Are autoimmune diseases more common in females?

Answer 4

Yes

Question 5

Name six autoimmune diseases in which T cells attack tissues (as opposed to antibodies attacking). How might these be treated?

Answer 5

1. IDDM
2. RA
3. MS
4. Crohn’s
5. Psoriasis
6. Celiac disease

Often treated with drugs that inhibit cytokines like anti-TNF alpha (humira)

Question 6

Name two autoimmune diseases in which Abs are responsible for causing the disease.

Answer 6

Hemolytic anemia and myasthenia gravis