Advanced
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
molecular mimicry
A mechanism where microbial antigens structurally resemble host antigens, potentially triggering autoimmune responses in pediatric patients.
Full Definition
An immunological phenomenon where foreign antigens share structural similarities with self-antigens, leading to cross-reactive immune responses that may result in autoimmune disease. In pediatric immunology, molecular mimicry is implicated in post-infectious autoimmune conditions such as post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis and rheumatic fever. This concept helps explain why certain infections can trigger autoimmune diseases in genetically susceptible children.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenate as molecular mimicry; do not use as 'molecular-mimicry' except when functioning as a compound adjective.
In Context
- "Molecular mimicry between streptococcal M protein and cardiac myosin may explain the pathogenesis of rheumatic heart disease." — research article
- "The autoimmune encephalitis was attributed to molecular mimicry following the viral infection." — case presentation
Also known as
antigenic mimicry
cross-reactivity
Contrasted with
antigenic specificity
Don't confuse with
cross-tolerance
immune tolerance