Predictive testing for pathogenic autoimmunity: the morphological approach.
The term autoimmunity refers to physiologically normal immune processes against self-antigens. In rare cases, the regulatory mechanisms become deflective and the uncontrolled production of autoantibodies or activation of autoreactive T-cells can subsequently cause disease. Substances may be capable of evoking autoimmune disease, and it is a challenge in routine toxicology to recognize such substances. In in vivo toxicity studies, uncommon inflammation in exposed animals should be discussed in terms of non-immune toxicity (e.g. irritation), infection, allergy and autoimmunity, taking into account that a response in even a few animals may be significant. Moreover, early morphological indicators of inflammation and lymphoid organ alterations can direct further investigation.
Kuper
C F
CF
Department of General Toxicology, Division of Toxicology, TNO Nutrition and Food Research, 3700 AJ, Zeist, The Netherlands. kuper@voedint.tno.nl
Schuurman
H
H
Bos-Kuijpers
M
M
Bloksma
N
N
D000818:Animals; D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000276:immunology*; D015551:Autoimmunity / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D007249:Inflammation / Q000209:etiology / Q000276:immunology; D008221:Lymphoid Tissue / Q000276:immunology; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests