Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Autoimmune Disorders

Dear Colleagues,

Autoimmune diseases are characterized by an impaired self-tolerance and by pathogenic antibodies against normal tissue proteins. These autoantibodies can directly damage their target tissues, or they can induce aberrant downstream effects, e.g., by stimulating signaling molecules. Various tissues such as the epidermis, thyroid, neuromuscular junction, myelinated nerves or the pancreas can be targets of such autoantibodies. Profound inflammation can be a result of autoimmunity, and the first line of treatment has traditionally been anti-inflammatory therapy with corticosteroids. However, more targeted therapies have started to emerge as our understanding of the molecular and cellular pathomechanisms is growing.

The purpose of this Special Issue is to highlight novel aspects of the cellular and molecular mechanisms of human autoimmune diseases. We encourage the submission of review articles and original research papers of any length. Our aim is to provide a comprehensive update on the pathomechanisms of autoimmune diseases at the cellular and molecular level.

Prof. Dr. Ritva Tikkanen
Guest Editor

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• autoimmune diseases
• self-tolerance
• immune cells
• autoantibodies
• autoantigens
• pathomechanisms