QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
Epitope spreading is when the pool of self-reactive T cells responds to self-antigens. These can spread and react to the same antigens in other parts of the body, leading to inflammation in those areas.
10023485
a
Continuous destruction of cells leading to further antigens being presented
QuestionChoice
This is the process of releasing 'cryptic antigens'. The destruction of superficial tissue causes the release of hidden antigens which are recognised by self-reactive cells, causing inflammation.
10023486
b
Tissue damage causing the release of hidden antigens
QuestionChoice
This is the proposed mechanism of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in which small autoantibody complexes attach to small blood vessels. Phagocytes then try to clear these complexes leading to inflammation.
10023489
e
Autoantibodies binding to small vessels causing inflammation
QuestionChoice
This is bystander activation, whereby self-reactive T and B cells come into contact with dendritic cells which are presenting self-antigens in the presence of inflammation from a different source of infection.
10023488
d
Presentation of antigens and presence of inflammation overcoming anergy
QuestionChoice
This is molecular mimicry. This is where pathogen antigens are very similar in structure to self-antigens, and so cause an immune response against them. This happens in Gullain-Barre syndrome.
10023487
c
Pathogen antigens resembling self-antigens
Concept
Chapter
2693
5681
Physical barriers of the immune system
Topic
158
Immunology
17095
A patient comes in with type 1 diabetes mellitus. The doctor questions what has caused the autoimmune response in this patient. He suspects that epitope spreading has played a key role in this.

Which of the following is the best description of epitope spreading?
a