PubMed · 11135564
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2001. Value for value.. https://doi.org/10.1038/83113
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Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease with a significant genetic component to susceptibility. Some environmental risks are known, and identification of specific genetic factors promises to define new molecular targets for therapy. Broad immunosuppression will be replaced by early, selective, and individualized intervention. Mortality rates will decline, and insights into therapy may apply to other autoimmune conditions.
Pemphigus is an autoimmune disorder, known to be caused by autoantibodies directed against critical adhesion molecules of squamous epithelial cells, the desmogleins. These autoantibodies induce blistering of skin and mucosal surfaces and lead to severe morbidity and, potentially, death. Key factors include associated major histocompatibility complex class II genes, the structure of the desmoglein antigens, and the role of autoantibody in impairing cellular adhesion. This article discusses the precise structure of the major histocompatibility complex class II gene-peptide-T-cell receptor complex involved and of the environmental and genetic factors that induce autoimmunity against desmoglein 1. Discovery of antigen-specific immunotherapy and insight into environmental factors that initiate autoimmunity in genetically susceptible individuals are needed.
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