Superantigens in Disease

Abstract: A 6 page paper discussing the mechanisms through which superantigens operate. Antigens and superantigens are protein substances produced by viruses and bacteria that trigger the body's immune system into action. That immune system can degrade most antigens without bringing harm to healthy tissue, but the superantigen is the microbial antigen that is of particularly strong effect. Research has shown that those same mechanisms can be manipulated for the benefit of the individual undergoing procedures such as chemotherapy or victims of autoimmune deficiencies, creating the possibility of a therapeutic strategy from a formerly fully negative occurrence. Bibliography lists 8 sources.

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Catagory: Disease, Treatment, & Epidemiology

Subcatagory: Medicine, Medical Issues, & Pharmacy

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