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- Title
The X chromosome in immune functions: when a chromosome makes the difference.
- Authors
Libert, Claude; Dejager, Lien; Pinheiro, Iris
- Abstract
In response to various immune challenges, females show better survival than males; the X chromosome has an important role in this immunological advantage. X chromosome-linked diseases are usually restricted to males, who have only one copy of the X chromosome; however, females are more prone to autoimmune diseases, and the X chromosome may be involved in the breakdown of self tolerance. Several hypotheses have been proposed in recent years that support a role for the X chromosome in shaping autoimmune responses. Here, we review the main mechanisms responsible for increased immune activity in females. This provides a survival advantage in the face of pathogenic insult but can also enhance the susceptibility of females to autoimmunity.
- Subjects
X chromosome; IMMUNE response; SEX-linkage (Genetics); AUTOIMMUNE diseases; FEMALE physiology; MALES; PHYSIOLOGY; CHROMOSOMES; RESEARCH; COMMUNICABLE diseases; RESEARCH methodology; MEDICAL cooperation; EVALUATION research; SEX distribution; COMPARATIVE studies; DISEASE susceptibility; IMMUNITY
- Publication
Nature Reviews Immunology, 2010, Vol 10, Issue 8, p594
- ISSN
1474-1733
- Publication type
journal article
- DOI
10.1038/nri2815