Modulation of the immune system by dying cells and the phosphatidylserine-ligand annexin A5.
Apoptotic cell death and the efficient clearance of dying cells are essential mechanisms to control tissue homeostasis and to eliminate potential autoantigens. Numerous alterations on the surfaces of dying cells define a highly characteristic membrane signature and enable an unequivocal distinction from vital cells. This way, phagocytosis is initiated and signalling events induced which minimize inflammatory reactions. Therefore, the use of proteins interfering with the clearance process may open up new vistas to improve immunization strategies and may help to understand the mechanisms of autoimmune diseases.
Gaipl
Udo S
US
Department of Internal Medicine 3, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen. Germany.
Munoz
Luis E
LE
Rödel
Franz
F
Pausch
Friederike
F
Frey
Benjamin
B
Brachvogel
Bent
B
von der Mark
Klaus
K
Pöschl
Ernst
E
D000818:Animals; D017304:Annexin A5 / Q000276:immunology*; D001324:Autoantigens / Q000276:immunology; D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000276:immunology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D016923:Cell Death; D002462:Cell Membrane / Q000276:immunology; D006801:Humans; D007114:Immunization; D008024:Ligands; D010587:Phagocytosis / Q000276:immunology*; D010718:Phosphatidylserines / Q000276:immunology*; D015398:Signal Transduction / Q000276:immunology*
D017304:Annexin A5; D001324:Autoantigens; D008024:Ligands; D010718:Phosphatidylserines