Viruses and autoimmune diseases--adapting Koch's postulates.
Viral hypotheses for the aetiopathogenesis of autoimmune diseases are unproven. Indeed, a primary role for virus-induced autoimmune disease has yet to be fully established even in experimental systems. However new insights into virus-host interactions and improved technology justify fresh evaluation of these issues. We suggest modified Koch's postulates to test the viral hypothesis.
Northwick Park Hospital, Harrow HA1 3UJ, UK.
A M
AM
Denman
Bracha
B
Rager-Zisman
D000818:Animals; D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000821:virology*; D006790:Host-Parasite Interactions / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans