{"product_id":"new-research-on-autoantibodies-9781604560558","title":"New Research on Autoantibodies","description":"\u003cb\u003eBook Synopsis\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAutoantibodies are a group of antibodies (immune proteins) that mistakenly target and damage specific tissues or organs of the body. One or more autoantibodies may be produced by a person''s immune system when it fails to distinguish between \"self\" and \"non-self\" proteins. Usually the immune system is able to discriminate by recognising foreign substances (non-self) and ignoring the body''s own cells (self), yet not overreact to non-threatening substances such as foods, dust and pollen, or beneficial microorganisms. It creates antibodies only when it perceives what it has been exposed to as a threat (non-self). When the immune system ceases to recognise one or more of the body''s normal constituents as \"self\", it may produce autoantibodies that attack its own cells, tissues, and\/or organs, causing inflammation and damage. The causes of this inappropriate action are varied and are not well understood, often resulting in a chronic auto-immune disorder. While there is not a direct link, it is thought that many cases of autoantibody production are due to a genetic predisposition combined with an environmental trigger (such as a viral illness or a prolonged exposure to certain toxic chemicals). Some families have been shown to have a high prevalence of auto-immune conditions; however, individual family members may have different auto-immune disorders or may never develop an auto-immune condition. Researchers believe that there may also be a hormonal component to the cause as many of the auto-immune conditions are more common in women of childbearing age. This book presents leading research from throughout the world.","brand":"Nova Science Publishers Inc","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48886626091351,"sku":"9781604560558","price":149.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"url":"https:\/\/bookcurl.com\/products\/new-research-on-autoantibodies-9781604560558","provider":"Book Curl","version":"1.0","type":"link"}