Learning Path
Question & Answer1
Understand Question2
Review Options3
Learn Explanation4
Explore TopicChoose the Best Answer
A
Immune system mistakenly targets self-cells
B
Inflammatory response is triggered
C
Tissue damage occurs
D
Immune system fails to recognize self vs. non-self
Understanding the Answer
Let's break down why this is correct
Answer
Autoimmune diseases begin when the immune system mistakenly recognizes the body’s own cells as foreign, often triggered by a genetic predisposition or a viral infection that shares similar molecular patterns. This triggers the activation of autoreactive T cells, which then help B cells produce antibodies that target self‑proteins. The antibodies or activated T cells form immune complexes or directly attack tissues, causing inflammation. The ongoing inflammatory response damages cells and tissues, leading to the clinical symptoms seen in autoimmune disorders. For example, in type 1 diabetes, pancreatic beta cells are destroyed after autoreactive T cells recognize insulin as a target.
Detailed Explanation
When the body’s immune cells think our own cells are invaders, they start attacking them. Other options are incorrect because Inflammation usually comes after the immune system first mistakes our own cells for enemies; Tissue damage is the outcome, not a starting point.
Key Concepts
Autoimmune diseases
Immune system dysfunction
Inflammation
Topic
Autoimmune Diseases
Difficulty
easy level question
Cognitive Level
understand
Practice Similar Questions
Test your understanding with related questions
1
Question 1What underlying mechanism is primarily responsible for the tissue damage observed in autoimmune diseases?
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2
Question 2Which statement best describes the implications of autoimmune diseases on immune system function?
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3
Question 3Which of the following statements correctly describe autoimmune diseases? Select all that apply.
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4
Question 4Autoimmune diseases: healthy immune response :: cancer: ?
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5
Question 5In autoimmune diseases, the immune system mistakenly targets the body's own __________, leading to inflammation and tissue damage.
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