6. Basic immunology of the joints Flashcards
How does the innate system recognise pathogens?
Via the usage of a certain number of pathogen associated molecular patterns (PAMPs)
How does the adaptive immune system recognise pathogens?
Via the generation of unlimited varied specific receptors aimed to recognise all known pathogens
What do cells of the innate system do once they bind to a pathogen?
They release cytokines or chemokines to mediate inflammation - this inflammation can then mediate immunity
When does inflammation become pathological?
Chronic inflammation can become pathological as it can result in tissue damage
How do autoimmune diseases arise?
This is when the adaptive immune system cannot recognise self-cells and instead recognise them as foreign - attempt to attach these cells
The adaptive immune system has accidentally produced self-receptors
What part of the immune system is involved with autoimmune disease?
Adaptive immune system
Which cells are involved with autoimmune disease?
T and B cells
How is the production of cell receptors usually managed?
Usually managed via immunological tolerance whereby these self receptors are eliminated
What are the two types of immunological tolerance?
Central tolerance
Peripheral tolerance
What is central tolerance?
Strongly self-reactive cells die within the primary lymphoid organs where they (b-cells and t-cells) are produced
What is peripheral tolerance?
Where self-reacting cells that survived central tolerance are killed
Why does the immune system start to attack the joints in many autoimmune conditions?
The initial trigger is unclear
However, there is an initial trigger which attracts the immune cells to this location
What are the three factors that influence the prevalence of joint conditions?
Genetics
Environment
Hormones
Are males or females more susceptible to joint conditions?
Females
Give seven environmental conditions that can influence the development of joint conditions
Infectious pathogens Drugs UV light Stress Smoking Diet Vitamin D
