Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Autoimmune Disease

Autoimmune disease (AIDx) results from failure to sustain tolerance to self molecules. Dozens of AIDx involving one or multiple organ systems afflict 3% or more of people worldwide (>75% women). Predisposing factors for AIDx include genetic background, hormonal status, pathogens, and xenobiotic exposures. The incidence of AIDx is higher in individuals living in developed nations, including recent immigrants. Patients may have several AIDx simultaneously. Certain AIDx can prevent other AIDx. A history of AIDx raises the risk for developing hematopoietic neoplasia. Some common mechanisms for losing self-tolerance include reduced deletion or enhanced activation of autoreactive CD4(+) T-helper (Th) lymphocytes, defective immunomodulation by CD4(+) regulatory (Treg) and CD8(+) suppressor (Ts) T-lymphocytes, dysregulated signaling (leading to a relative increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines), comparable structure between self-antigens and foreign molecules, or expression of new epitopes on previously hidden or xenobiotic-modified self proteins. Organ-specific AIDx is generally a cell-mediated (Th1 or Th17) process, while multi-organ AIDx also incorporates a robust autoantibody (Th2) component. Cytokine signatures of different AIDx overlap incompletely; for a given AIDx, different patients have divergent cytokine profiles. Newer anti-AIDx agents are based on our increasing knowledge of AIDx pathogenesis and usually attempt to reverse lymphocyte dysfunction, quell pro-inflammatory signaling, or restore self-tolerance.