Autoimmunity in IgA deficiency: revisiting the role of IgA as a silent housekeeper

J Clin Immunol. 2008 May:28 Suppl 1:S56-61. doi: 10.1007/s10875-007-9163-2. Epub 2008 Jan 17.

Abstract

Both systemic and organ-specific autoimmune diseases are major manifestations of IgA deficiency (IgAD), the most common primary immunodeficiency. In addition, to discuss the clinical findings of IgAD patients, we proposed a hypothesis to explain the high association with autoimmune phenomena. Based on observations, interactions of monomeric IgA with FcalphaRI result in a partial phosphorylation of FcRgamma-associated FcalphaRI, notably in the immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motif (ITAM) inducing the recruitment of the SHP-1 tyrosine phosphatase. This leads to deactivation of several activating pathways of the immune system including immunoreceptors that bear ITAM motif and ITAM-independent receptors. Consequently, inflammatory reactions and auto-immune process would be prevented.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adenocarcinoma / etiology
  • Adenocarcinoma / immunology
  • Autoimmune Diseases / epidemiology
  • Autoimmune Diseases / etiology
  • Autoimmune Diseases / immunology
  • Autoimmunity*
  • Brazil
  • Humans
  • IgA Deficiency / complications
  • IgA Deficiency / epidemiology
  • IgA Deficiency / genetics*
  • IgA Deficiency / immunology*
  • Immunity, Mucosal
  • Models, Immunological
  • Opportunistic Infections / immunology
  • Prevalence
  • Receptors, Fc / genetics
  • Receptors, Fc / immunology
  • Self Tolerance
  • Signal Transduction
  • Stomach Neoplasms / etiology
  • Stomach Neoplasms / immunology

Substances

  • Receptors, Fc