The evolution of the immunobiology of co-stimulatory pathways: clinical implications.
Co-stimulatory pathways are a prerequisite for the regulation of T-cell activation and tolerance. After the engagement of the T-cell receptor (TCR) to the major histocompatibility complex (MHC)/peptide complex, the co-stimulatory signals are critical to decide the outcome of the immune response. While positive co-stimulatory signals promote T-cell activation, negative signals delivered through inducible co-inhibitory receptors limit immune response, thereby regulating tolerance and autoimmunity. This review is intended not only to give an overview of the immunobiology of co-stimulatory pathways and their role in autoimmune diseases, but will also highlight the complexities and relevant issues one may have to think through to translate the target-ing of co-stimulatory pathways into successful therapeutic interventions.
Trikudanathan
S
S
Transplantation Research Center, Renal Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
Sayegh
M H
MH
D000818:Animals; D005075:Biological Evolution; D006649:Histocompatibility Antigens / Q000276:immunology; D006801:Humans; D007108:Immune Tolerance / Q000276:immunology*; D008213:Lymphocyte Activation / Q000276:immunology*; D051379:Mice; D011948:Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell / Q000276:immunology; D015398:Signal Transduction / Q000276:immunology*; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000276:immunology*
D006649:Histocompatibility Antigens; D011948:Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell