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Questions and Answers
Which process eliminates immature T cells that recognize self-antigens with high affinity in the thymus?
What is the primary function of T regulatory cells in peripheral tolerance?
Which of the following is NOT a mechanism of peripheral tolerance?
What is the term for the breakdown of immunological tolerance leading to an immune response against self-antigens?
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Which of the following autoimmune diseases is an example of an organ-specific autoimmune disease?
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What is the primary role of immunological tolerance in preventing autoimmune diseases?
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Which of the following is a hormonal influence that can contribute to autoimmunity?
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What is the term for the process by which immature T cells that recognize self-antigens with low affinity are spared and mature?
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Study Notes
Central Tolerance
- Occurs in the thymus
- Immature T cells that recognize self-antigens with high affinity are eliminated through apoptosis (negative selection)
- T cells that recognize self-antigens with low affinity are spared and mature (positive selection)
Peripheral Tolerance
- Occurs in peripheral tissues
- Involves mechanisms to prevent autoimmune responses:
- T regulatory cells (Tregs) suppress autoreactive T cells
- Activation-induced cell death (AICD) eliminates autoreactive T cells
- Immune privilege: certain tissues (e.g., eye, brain) have reduced immune surveillance
- Immune suppression: cytokines (e.g., TGF-β, IL-10) and cells (e.g., Tregs) suppress immune responses
Autoimmunity
- Occurs when tolerance is broken, and the immune system attacks self-antigens
- Can be caused by:
- Genetic predisposition
- Environmental triggers (e.g., infections, toxins)
- Hormonal influences
- Immune system dysfunction
- Examples of autoimmune diseases:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Lupus
- Hashimoto's thyroiditis
- Multiple sclerosis
Immunological Tolerance and Autoimmunity
- Immunological tolerance is crucial for preventing autoimmune diseases
- Autoimmune diseases occur when immunological tolerance is broken
- Understanding tolerance mechanisms can provide insights into autoimmune disease pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets
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Description
Understand the mechanisms of central and peripheral tolerance, and how their breakdown can lead to autoimmune diseases. Learn about the different types of tolerance, their importance, and examples of autoimmune diseases. Test your knowledge on immunological tolerance and autoimmunity!
