Does a low level of expression of HLA molecules engender autoimmunity?

Article Abstract:

Cells that do not have many HLA molecules on their surface may be attacked by the immune system. HLA molecules are proteins on the surface of the cell that take foreign proteins such as those of a virus and transfer them from the inside of the cell to the outside. Then the immune system recognizes the foreign protein and destroys the infected cell. A 1999 study described a patient with pure red cell aplasia who had high levels of a white blood cell that was destroying his red blood cells. This occurred because red blood cells have few HLA molecules on their surface.

Editorial, HLA histocompatibility antigens, HLA antigens

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Recurrence of autoimmune diabetes mellitus in recipients of cadaveric pancreatic grafts

Article Abstract:

Insulin-dependent diabetes can re-occur in patients who receive a pancreas transplant even though they receive immunosuppressive drugs. This was demonstrated in two diabetic patients who received a pancreas transplant from a cadaver. Neither transplant was a good match. Both patients received cyclosporine, azathioprine and prednisolone to suppress graft rejection. However, the autoimmune process believed to underly type 1 diabetes continued to destroy the beta cells in the transplanted pancreas. Both patients had to resume insulin injections.

Health aspects, Organ transplant recipients, Type 1 diabetes, Pancreas, Pancreas transplantation

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Tolerance and autoimmunity

Article Abstract:

Research on autoimmunity can lead to effective treatments for diseases such as type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. Normally the immune system destroys T cells that react with the body's own tissues. When this process breaks down, autoimmunity results.

Immunological tolerance, Immunologic tolerance

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