Generation of a cross-reactive immune response in acute rheumatic fever
Generation of a cross-reactive immune response in acute rheumatic fever
Following GAS adhesion to and invasion of the pharyngeal epithelium, GAS antigens activate both B and T cells. Molecular mimicry between GAS group A carbohydrate or serotype-specific M protein and the host heart, brain, or joint tissues can lead to an autoimmune response, which causes the major manifestations of ARF.
GAS: group A Streptococcus; BCR: B cell receptor; TCR: T cell receptor; MHC: major histocompatibility complex; ARF: acute rheumatic fever.