Immunologically privileged site

From WikiMD's Wellnesspedia

Immunologically privileged site is a term used in immunology to describe certain parts of the body that can tolerate the introduction of antigen without eliciting an inflammatory immune response. These sites include the brain, eyes, fetus, and testes.

Overview[edit | edit source]

Immunologically privileged sites are areas of the body where graft tissue can be accepted without being rejected. This is due to the unique immune response in these areas, which is different from the rest of the body. The concept of immunological privilege was first introduced by Peter Medawar in the 1940s when he discovered that skin grafts placed on the eyes of rabbits were not rejected.

Mechanism[edit | edit source]

The mechanism of immunological privilege is complex and involves several factors. These include the presence of blood-brain barrier and blood-testis barrier, which prevent the entry of immune cells and antibodies. Additionally, these sites have a low expression of Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules, which are essential for the recognition of foreign antigens by the immune system.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Understanding the concept of immunologically privileged sites has important implications in transplantation and autoimmune diseases. For instance, it can help in the development of strategies to induce immunological tolerance in organ transplantation. Moreover, the breakdown of immunological privilege can lead to autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis and type 1 diabetes.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Immunologically privileged site Resources

Find a healthcare provider anywhere in the world quickly and easily!

Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.


Contributors: Admin, Prab R. Tumpati, MD