Endogenous retroviral sequences in the pathogenesis of systemic autoimmune disease.

OBJECTIVES

To update information on endogenous retroviral sequences and discuss their role in systemic autoimmune disease.

DATA SOURCES

Articles retrieved after MEDLINE search and personal communications and cooperation with the Institute of Virology.

DATA SYNTHESIS

There are 2 modes of pathogenetic mechanisms through which endogenous retroviral sequences could cause systemic autoimmune disease: expression of endogenous retroviral gene products sharing antigenic determinants with cellular proteins; and activation or destruction of cellular genes as a consequence of insertional mutagenesis. Both mechanisms have been demonstrated in vitro and in vivo in animal models.

CONCLUSION

Investigations on endogenous retroviral sequences in humans may offer new insights into the pathogenesis of autoimmune disease.