The nature of autoantigens targeted in autoimmune endocrine diseases.

Autoimmune endocrine diseases result from autoimmune processes involving autoreactive T cells and/or autoantibodies. Considerable progress has been made in elucidating the self- (auto-) antigens involved in these processes. These include tissue-specific membrane receptors, enzymes and secreted hormones. As discussed here by Yao-Hua Song and colleagues, diagnostic and therapeutic applications should now result from these discoveries.