Towards a General Theory of Immunity?

Trends Immunol. 2018 Apr;39(4):261-263. doi: 10.1016/j.it.2017.11.004. Epub 2017 Dec 8.

Abstract

Theories are indispensable to organize immunological data into coherent, explanatory, and predictive frameworks. We propose to combine different models to develop a unifying theory of immunity which situates immunology in the wider context of physiology. We believe that the immune system will be increasingly understood as a central component of a network of partner physiological systems that interconnect to maintain homeostasis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Autoantigens / immunology
  • Homeostasis
  • Humans
  • Immune System*
  • Immune Tolerance
  • Immunity, Innate*
  • Models, Immunological*

Substances

  • Autoantigens