Autoantibodies

Antibodies which the immune system forms on individual cells or tissues due to disturbed function against the body's own structures (e.g. proteins, phospholipids), i.e. the physiological immunological tolerance to the "self" is disturbed or cancelled. Autoantibodies can opsonise autoantigens and induce phagocytosis by macrophages, activate complement or induce lysis of affected cells by cytotoxic lymphocytes or NK cells. Depending on the extent of the autoimmune reaction, immune complexes can develop, which are deposited in the tissue and can lead to local inflammation. Autoantibodies against specific cell membrane receptors can block or mimic the action of hormones. The formation of autoantibodies is often associated with skin diseases or rheumatic diseases, among others. S.a.u. autoimmune diseases.

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Antigen specificities of autoantibodies in rheumatic diseases and liver diseases