Mechanisms of heavy metal-induced autoimmunity

Mol Immunol. 2005 May;42(7):833-8. doi: 10.1016/j.molimm.2004.07.050.

Abstract

Chemical exposure can trigger or accelerate the development of autoimmune manifestations. Although heavy metals are elementary chemical structures, they can have profound and complex effects on the immune system. In genetically susceptible mice or rats, administration of subtoxic doses of mercury induces both the production of highly specific autoantibodies and a polyclonal activation of the immune system. We review in this article some of the mechanisms by which heavy metal exposure can lead to autoimmunity.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Autoimmune Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Autoimmune Diseases / etiology
  • Autoimmunity*
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Mercury / toxicity*
  • Mice
  • Rats

Substances

  • Mercury