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'''Autoimmune disease''' is defined as ''a disease state characterised by a specific antibody or cell mediated response against the body's own tissues ('self' antigens).

'''Autoimmune disease''' is defined as ''a disease state characterised by a specific antibody or cell mediated response against the body's own tissues ('self' antigens).

The breakdown of [[Immune Tolerance - WikiBlood|tolerance]] to self antigens and the failure to regulate pathological immune responses are both responsible for autoimmune diseases. It has been shown in mice that thymectomy causes autoimmune disease, and plays a very important role in the recognition of 'self'.  

The breakdown of [[Immune Tolerance|tolerance]] to self antigens and the failure to regulate pathological immune responses are both responsible for autoimmune diseases. It has been shown in mice that thymectomy causes autoimmune disease, and plays a very important role in the recognition of 'self'.  

Particular individuals may be more susceptible to autoimmune diseases due to:

Particular individuals may be more susceptible to autoimmune diseases due to: