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Original

Modulation of the immune system by dying cells and the phosphatidylserine-ligand annexin A5

, , , , , , , , , & show all
Pages 254-259 | Accepted 18 Jan 2007, Published online: 07 Jul 2009
 

Abstract

Apoptotic cell death and the efficient clearance of dying cells are essential mechanisms to control tissue homeostasis and to eliminate potential autoantigens. Numerous alterations on the surfaces of dying cells define a highly characteristic membrane signature and enable an unequivocal distinction from vital cells. This way, phagocytosis is initiated and signalling events induced which minimize inflammatory reactions. Therefore, the use of proteins interfering with the clearance process may open up new vistas to improve immunization strategies and may help to understand the mechanisms of autoimmune diseases.

Abbreviations
ß2GP-1=

ß2-glycoprotein-1

Gas-6=

protein product of the growth arrest gene 6

MER-Kinase=

a tyrosine kinase receptor

MFG-E8=

milk fat globule protein E8

PS=

phosphatidylserine

SR-B=

scavenger receptor-B

Abbreviations
ß2GP-1=

ß2-glycoprotein-1

Gas-6=

protein product of the growth arrest gene 6

MER-Kinase=

a tyrosine kinase receptor

MFG-E8=

milk fat globule protein E8

PS=

phosphatidylserine

SR-B=

scavenger receptor-B

Acknowledgements

This work was supported by “Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft” SFB 643 (project B5), by the Interdisciplinary Centre for Clinical Research (IZKF) (project A4) at the University Hospital of the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, the ELAN program of the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, the Programme Alban, and the European Union Program of High Level Scholarships for Latin America, scholarship no. “E04D047956VE” to L. E. M.

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