Hepatoimmunology: a perspective

IR Mackay - Immunology and cell biology, 2002 - Wiley Online Library
IR Mackay
Immunology and cell biology, 2002Wiley Online Library
Premises for the subspecialty of hepatoimmunology include the recognition that the liver is a
lymphoid organ with unique immunological properties. These properties ensure efficient
innate defence against intestinal microbes and toxins, confer a particular capacity for
induction of tolerance, and provide for apoptotic disposal of redundant lymphocytes.
Pathological responses within the liver are elicited when:(i) hepatotropic viruses (hepatitis
virus B and C) escape immune elimination and reside in hepatocytes;(ii) the liver becomes …
Premises for the subspecialty of hepatoimmunology include the recognition that the liver is a lymphoid organ with unique immunological properties. These properties ensure efficient innate defence against intestinal microbes and toxins, confer a particular capacity for induction of tolerance, and provide for apoptotic disposal of redundant lymphocytes. Pathological responses within the liver are elicited when: (i) hepatotropic viruses (hepatitis virus B and C) escape immune elimination and reside in hepatocytes; (ii) the liver becomes the site of autoimmune responses directed against either hepatocytes (autoimmune hepatitis) or biliary ductules (primary biliary cirrhosis); or (iii) the liver in the course of disposal of drugs generates neoantigens that provoke adverse allergic responses. Recent advances in the understanding of the immunopathogenesis of these entities are reviewed.
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