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The hidden story of autoimmunity: Why does the body mistakenly attack itself?
Antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) have attracted much attention in the field of medical research, especially in the field of autoimmune diseases. These antibodies are mistakenly produced by the body's immune system. Antibodies that should only target foreign pathogens begin to attack the nuclear components of one's own cells. Scientists have been seeking to understand the root causes of autoimmune reactions and uncover the secrets of why the body attacks itself.
The pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases is still an unsolved mystery. Some experts believe that it may be related to genetic factors, environmental triggers and the regulation of the immune system.
The relationship between immunity and autoimmunity
Contributing to the immune response, B cells and T cells collaborate to fight infection by producing antibodies against foreign pathogens. Ideally, these immune cells should be able to recognize and reject foreign antigens without compromising their own expression. However, under certain circumstances, this self-tolerance system fails, resulting in the production of antibodies against the body's own antigens.
When the body's immune system accidentally recognizes its own antigens as foreign substances, it can lead to an autoimmune reaction that may cause chronic disease.
Subtypes of antinuclear antibodies
IPA can be detected in a variety of diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren's syndrome, etc. In addition, anti-nuclear antibodies are flexible and can be divided into multiple subtypes, such as anti-Ro, anti-La, anti-Smith antibody (Anti-Sm), etc. Each class of antibodies targets a different nuclear protein or protein complex, revealing distinct features of involvement in these immune diseases.
Extractable nuclear antigen (ENA)
Extractable nuclear antigens are a group of autoantigens originally developed as targets for antibodies in patients with autoimmune diseases. These antigens include ribonucleoproteins and non-histone proteins, and are named after the donors who provided the prototype serum, such as Sm, Ro, La, etc.
Anti-Ro and anti-La antibodies
Anti-Ro and anti-La antibodies are common in primary Sjogren's disease, an autoimmune disease affecting the exocrine glands. The presence of these antibodies is significantly associated with early onset and prolonged course of the disease. When anti-Ro antibodies cross the placenta, they may also pose a risk of cardiac conduction obstruction and neonatal lupus in the baby.
Anti-Smith antibody (Anti-Sm)
Anti-Smith antibody is one of the specific markers of systemic lupus erythematosus. Although only about 20% of SLE patients have this antibody, its identification of the disease is of great significance.
The role of other antibodies
Considering the role of anti-dsDNA antibodies in SLE, these antibodies are closely related to disease activity and have a direct impact on kidney disease. In addition, anti-histone antibodies are commonly found in drug-induced lupus and are also associated with a variety of other autoimmune diseases, demonstrating the complexity and diversity of the immune system.
The importance of ANA testing
Anti-nuclear antibody testing is an important means of diagnosing autoimmune diseases. Although its positive rate is high in healthy adults, it can help further confirm the diagnosis. Using immunofluorescence detection methods, doctors can understand the types of antibodies and their relative concentrations, which provides possible directions for personalized treatment.
The results of the ANA test need to be considered together with other clinical data, because a single positive result is not enough to establish a diagnosis.
Facing the challenge of autoimmune diseases, researchers and clinicians continue to explore the causes of immune system malfunctions. The causes and complexity of these diseases provide a solid foundation for their medical practice. In this process of exploration, while the human body is seeking a balance in struggle and reconciliation, is the attack on itself an inevitable result of the body's genetic coding?
