The X chromosome in immune functions: when a chromosome makes the difference.
In response to various immune challenges, females show better survival than males; the X chromosome has an important role in this immunological advantage. X chromosome-linked diseases are usually restricted to males, who have only one copy of the X chromosome; however, females are more prone to autoimmune diseases, and the X chromosome may be involved in the breakdown of self tolerance. Several hypotheses have been proposed in recent years that support a role for the X chromosome in shaping autoimmune responses. Here, we review the main mechanisms responsible for increased immune activity in females. This provides a survival advantage in the face of pathogenic insult but can also enhance the susceptibility of females to autoimmunity.
Libert
Claude
C
Department for Molecular Biomedical Research, Flanders Institute for Biotechnology (VIB), 9052 Ghent, Belgium. Claude.Libert@dmbr.vib-ugent.be
Dejager
Lien
L
Pinheiro
Iris
I
D056704:Adaptive Immunity; D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000235:genetics*; D041321:Chromosomes, Human, X / Q000235:genetics*; D003141:Communicable Diseases / Q000235:genetics; D004198:Disease Susceptibility; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012737:Sex Factors